Maryland is asking rural communities to share their ideas for strengthening local health care systems. The input will guide the State’s proposal for federal funding through the Rural Health Transformation Program.
In a recent press release, the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) is requesting input to strengthen health care in Maryland’s rural areas. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, enacted into law earlier this year, created a fund, called the Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program. This federal Program is a $50 billion initiative from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The initiative will invest in rural health across the country over the next five years.
Through this program, Maryland has the chance to secure federal funding that could drive significant improvements in rural health care systems. The Department is particularly interested in strategies that address pressing health challenges such as chronic disease prevention and management, behavioral health, sustainable access to care, workforce development, and the use of innovative care models and technology.
From the press release:
Input from our rural communities is crucial for effectively shaping our proposal to address their unique health challenges. Together, we can develop a comprehensive approach that meets the needs of our rural health care systems and improves our communities’ overall health and well-being, said Maryland Health Secretary Dr. Meena Seshamani.
The Maryland Department of Health plans to provide multiple avenues for engagement. Residents and organizations can submit project proposals and ideas through a Request for Information form, available online. Submissions will be accepted until September 30. To help stakeholders learn more, the Department will host a public webinar on Monday, September 15, at 12:30 pm. The Department will also partner with local health departments to hold listening sessions. The Office of Rural Health will post the dates on its website, and the Department will promote them.
The call for input presents an opportunity to highlight local priorities and unique needs in statewide planning. With rural counties across Maryland facing distinct challenges in access, workforce capacity, and service delivery, county leaders and residents have an important voice in shaping how these federal dollars are deployed. Having a role in this process can help ensure Maryland’s proposal reflects the realities on the ground and sets the stage for long-term improvements in rural health.
For more information about the Rural Health Transformation Program, click here.
