RICHMOND, Va. (WDBJ) – Governor Glenn Youngkin has announced Virginia has submitted an application for $1 billion in federal “Rural Health Transformation” funding.
The office said the funding request under H.R. 1 (One Big Beautiful Bill Act), signed in July by President Trump, a proposal titled, “VA Rural Vitality”, would help modernize “health care delivery”.
Put together under Executive Directive Twelve and led by Secretary of Health and Human Resources Janet V. Kelly, VA Rural Vitality is a proposal with extensive input from communities and healthcare providers across the state, as well as research on national best practices to overhaul the rural healthcare infrastructure, the governor’s office said.
“Our VA Rural Vitality plan takes bold action to ensure every Virginian – no matter their zip code – can access high-quality care close to home,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin.
“This $1 billion investment will strengthen our workforce, expand innovative care models, and deliver the tools communities need to live healthier, more productive lives. I want to thank President Trump and his administration for their collaboration and commitment to transforming rural health care and building a stronger, healthier Virginia for generations to come.”
According to the governor’s office, four initiatives are driving the need for an overhaul on rural healthcare in the state via VA Rural Vitality:
- Empower healthier lives: Launch incentive-based programs and technology-driven tools that help Virginians prevent and manage chronic conditions.
- Grow our own workforce: Build local health pipelines through high schools, community colleges, and universities to train and retain the next generation of rural health professionals.
- Rewire care delivery: Expand hybrid and mobile care models, connect rural providers to larger health systems, and develop sustainable payment structures.
- Invest in innovation: Deploy advanced technologies, including AI-powered tools, to improve access, coordination, and patient outcomes.
The goal once the funding is awarded is to implement the initiatives through the Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) and the Virginia Department of Health (VDH), as well as through Kelly’s office. The commonwealth would also work alongside hospitals, health systems, federally qualified health centers, food banks, and health technology partners make an impact throughout the state, the governor’s office said.
According to the office of the governor, rural communities across the commonwealth are in need of an upgrade because:
- Nearly 55% of rural localities are in Primary Care Health Professional Shortage Areas.
- 63% of Virginia counties lack an OB-GYN, and 22% of rural residents travel over 40 minutes to reach a labor and delivery unit.
- Chronic conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and hypertension all exceed national averages.
- Substance use disorder affects 17% of rural adults and 9% of youth aged 12–17.
More information on the application can be found here.
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