The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), has announced nearly $75 million in funding to support health care services in rural America. This investment aims to launch new opioid treatment and recovery services, strengthen maternal health care in the South, and help rural hospitals remain operational.

HRSA Administrator Carole Johnson discussed the impact of this investment at an event in Wilson, North Carolina. The Biden-Harris Administration has been active in supporting rural communities' health through various initiatives such as training physicians, providing loan repayment for primary care providers, and supporting community health centers.

"The Biden-Harris Administration believes health care should be available to everyone regardless of where they live. That’s why we are investing heavily in rural communities, which have historically lacked resources and access to health services," said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra. "The awards announced today support rural hospitals and address acute challenges related to substance use and maternal health."

"At the Health Resources and Services Administration, we know that where you live should not determine your access to or the quality of the care that you receive," said HRSA Administrator Carole Johnson. "And we are taking action to deliver for rural families by supporting high-quality substance use disorder treatment and maternal health services in rural communities, and by helping rural hospitals continue to serve their communities."

Rural communities often face challenges accessing essential health care services due to smaller populations, longer travel distances, and other barriers that make it difficult for facilities like rural hospitals to remain viable.

HRSA's Federal Office of Rural Health Policy prioritizes improving access to healthcare for the 61 million people living in rural areas.

Today's announcement includes several key investments:

- Launching and expanding substance use disorder treatment: HRSA is awarding nearly $54 million over four years to 18 organizations. These funds will create new or expand existing access points for treatment and recovery services while supporting the behavioral health workforce.

- Expanding access to maternal health services: Nearly $9 million over four years will go to five organizations in the Delta region of the South. This funding aims to expand access before, during, and after pregnancy.

- Supporting the viability of rural hospitals: HRSA is providing nearly $12 million over three years for technical assistance. This will help these hospitals add or expand healthcare services needed by their communities.

For a list of awards visit: https://www.hrsa.gov/about/news/fy24-rural-award-announcements

For more information on HRSA’s grants visit: https://www.hrsa.gov/rural-health