BISMARCK, N.D. — North Dakota lawmakers are gearing up for a special session in January to discuss spending over $500 million in federal funds aimed at improving rural health care. Governor Kelly Armstrong has set January 21 for this important meeting.
This funding comes as part of the Rural Health Transformation Program, which aims to reshape health care in rural areas. Armstrong emphasized the “incredible opportunity” to enhance health services across the state, expressing gratitude for the collaborative efforts of legislative leaders.
The state submitted its funding application to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services on November 3, detailing investment plans for the next five years. Officials aim to enhance access, quality, and health outcomes for residents in rural communities.
Federal officials are expected to announce funding decisions by December 31. Once confirmed, Armstrong will formally call the Legislature to meet. North Dakota law requires lawmakers to approve any federal funding before it can be used.
### A Focused Strategy
North Dakota’s funding application includes four main initiatives:
1. Strengthening and stabilizing the rural health workforce.
2. Expanding preventive care and healthy eating programs.
3. Increasing access to high-quality health care.
4. Improving connections between technology, data, and health providers statewide.
The state’s Health and Human Services department conducted a 30-day survey that gathered over 1,200 responses from the public. They also hosted three listening sessions, attracting more than 300 participants.
This initiative is part of the federal Working Families Tax Cut Act, which allocates $50 billion for rural health over five years. Half of this amount is distributed equally among the states; the other half is based on specific applications and state metrics that indicate where funds can create the most significant health improvements.
Rural communities in North Dakota face numerous challenges, including hospital closures, staff shortages, and limited access to specialized care. This federal funding could be a game-changer, representing one of the largest investments in rural health care in decades.
As North Dakota moves forward, experts believe the focus on technology and preventive care will be crucial in tackling these longstanding issues. With proper implementation, this funding has the potential to significantly enhance the health landscape of the state.
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