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Rural Health Information Hub
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Rural Health
News by Topic: Population health

Aug 7, 2026 - Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) from the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) proposing to rescind and replace the Head Start Program Performance Standards. Among other things, the proposed revisions intend to reduce Federal regulation and duplication; empower states, local programs, and families with greater authority and flexibility; advance the health and well-being of children and communities; and reinforce evidence-based standards for health, nutrition, and physical activity. Comments are due by October 6, 2026.
Source: Federal Register
Aug 7, 2026 - Describes a book prescription program that is expanding across Pennsylvania including into rural areas. The program includes a book at each checkup and aims to improve literacy, promote brain development, and build trust between pediatricians and families.
Source: 90.5 WESA
Aug 6, 2026 - Notice from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) seeking comments on a proposed information collection request titled "HIV Capacity Building Assistance (CBA) Program: Data Management, Monitoring, and Evaluation." The information collection will be used to determine the short- and long-term outcomes of the CDC HIV CBA program and provide feedback to support continuous quality improvement. Comments are due by October 5, 2026.
Source: Federal Register
Aug 6, 2026 - Describes a telehealth pilot program in Montana to address rural child abuse by connecting rural providers with training, resources, and referrals to medical providers who have specialized training in child abuse care. Discusses the lifelong health, wellness, and economic challenges that can be avoided through early intervention.
Source: University of Montana News
Aug 5, 2026 - Describes the Rural Immersion Program, a program in Missouri offering healthcare students more information on the challenges associated with rural healthcare and wellness in Missouri.
Source: KTTN
Aug 4, 2026 - The American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer has added a new accreditation category for rural hospitals with the goal of improving healthcare quality and outcomes for cancer patients. Notes that there are fewer accredited hospitals and less access to specialty care in rural areas.
Source: PR Newswire
Jul 30, 2026 - Highlights farm safety risks for both workers and non-working people such as children and other farm family members. Notes the economic impact of agricultural injuries.
Source: Farm Press
Jul 29, 2026 - Describes a rural Arkansas community project that will offer community gardening, gathering space, and opportunities to improve digital literacy skills.
Source: KATV
Jul 27, 2026 - Notice from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) allowing an additional 30 days for comment on the April 21, 2026, notice regarding revisions to the National Survey of Family Growth (NSFG). The NSFG is designed to collect nationally representative and scientifically credible data on factors related to birth and pregnancy rates, family formation and dissolution patterns, and reproductive health. Comments are due within 30 days of this notice.
Source: Federal Register
Jul 24, 2026 - The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is seeking comments to inform the future direction of federal efforts to accelerate scientific progress and improve support for individuals living with Alzheimer's disease and Alzheimer's disease-related dementias (AD/ADRD) and their families. HHS asks for input on approaches to advance AD/ADRD research and development of new interventions to prevent and treat dementia, risk reduction strategies, early detection and diagnostic tools, and/or enhanced care, services, and supports for people living with dementia and their families, caregivers, and care partners. In addition, HHS seeks input on gaps, emerging priorities, and opportunities to strengthen coordination across federal, state, tribal, local, private sector, and community partners. Comments are due by August 15, 2026.
Source: Federal Register