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Rural Health Information Hub
Rural Health Information Hub

Rural Health
News by Topic: Technology for health and human services

Aug 31, 2026 - Notice of proposed rule from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) seeking comments on proposals to improve the administration of the Universal Service Fund, including the structure of USF administration, operating costs associated with USF administration, and the impact of the Universal Service Administrative Company's (USAC) Board of Directors on USF administration. Comments are due by September 30, 2026, and reply comments are due by October 30, 2026.
Source: Federal Register
Aug 31, 2026 - Notice of proposed rule from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) seeking comments on possible Rural Health Care (RHC) Program improvements related to Telecommunications (Telecom) Program support calculations, RHC Program supported services, and RHC Program processes. Specifically, the FCC is interested in comments on the scope of the similar service and rural area comparability requirements, existing cost study method of determining rural telecommunications rates, a proposal to establish an eligible services list for the Rural Health Care (RHC) Program, and more. Comments are due by September 30, 2026.
Source: Federal Register
Aug 28, 2026 - Various Virginia community-based organizations are among the first wave of grantees who will use Rural Health Transformation Fund (RHTF) money to hire and retain rural healthcare providers, invest in healthcare technologies, and strengthen the healthcare workforce in rural areas. Virginia received a total $189 million in RHTF money late last year.
Source: Virginia Mercury
Aug 27, 2026 - Highlights Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) funding in Ohio to connect pharmacies, Federally Qualified Health Centers, health systems, and other partners across the state through a health information exchange. The goal is to build a rural pharmacy network, expand clinical services in pharmacies, and conduct a pharmacy needs assessment across the state.
Source: Ohio Pharmacists Association
Aug 27, 2026 - Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) funding of $55.7 million through the Telehealth, Health-Monitoring, and Response Innovation for Vital Expansion initiative and $93.6 million through the Promoting Access Coordination and Transformation priority. Arkansas is expected to receive approximately $1 billion in RHTP funding in the next five years.
Source: Office of Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders
Aug 26, 2026 - Discusses the use of texting services for mental health support in rural Mississippi following a report showing the state has the 3rd highest rate of rural users in the nation. Notes that texting services can increase access to mental healthcare and provide anonymity for rural residents.
Source: Mississippi Today
Aug 26, 2026 - Describes a plan to use drone technology to support timely medical delivery in a rural Kansas community. Discusses the resources and labor that could be repurposed, particularly during emergency situations.
Source: KSNT
Aug 24, 2026 - Highlights recent research describing a successful automated phone counseling program aiming to increase physical activity among residents in 6 rural Alabama counties. Notes that increased exercise can positively impact rural health disparities.
Source: UAB News
Aug 20, 2026 - Announces new funding for an artificial intelligence (AI) training program focused on nurses in rural, remote, and underserved communities. The program aims to train nurses to safely and effectively use AI in clinical environments.
Source: American Nurses Enterprise News
Aug 20, 2026 - Notice from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) announcing a public meeting of the FirstNet Authority Board and Board Committees on September 15, 2026, from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. Eastern. Agenda items are being finalized and will be published on the FirstNet Authority website. Public attendance will be available online only.
Source: Federal Register