Telehealth and Health Information Technology in Rural Healthcare – News
News stories from the past 60 days.
HHS: Statement of Organization, Functions, and Delegations of Authority; Office of The National Coordinator for Health Information Technology
Federal Register
Apr 1, 2026 - Notice from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) reversing the July 29, 2024, notice that moved technology and data policy and strategy functions from the Assistant Secretary for Administration to the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT (ONC). This notice restores ONC as a singularly titled office. In addition, the roles and responsibilities of the HHS Chief Technology Officer, Office of the HHS Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer, and Office of the HHS Chief Data Officer will no longer be part of ONC.
Source: Federal Register
Mar 26, 2026 - Describes a telestroke program in Oklahoma connecting rural patients to specialty care. Discusses the funding that makes the program possible, plans to expand the program using Rural Health Transformation Program funding, and a similar program in Arkansas.
Source: KOSU, NPR
HHS: Administrative Simplification; Adoption of Standards for Health Care Claims Attachments Transactions and Electronic Signatures
Federal Register
Mar 24, 2026 - Notice of final rule from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) adopting standards for healthcare claims attachments transactions and a standard for electronic signatures to be used in conjunction with these transactions. This rule also summarizes and responds to comments received on the December 21, 2022, proposed rule. This final rule is effective May 26, 2026. Compliance with these regulations are required by May 26, 2028.
Source: Federal Register
Mar 22, 2026 - Describes a research initiative investigating how artificial intelligence and mobile clinics might be used to increase access to care in rural areas with workforce shortages. Highlights rural healthcare access disparities and implementation challenges related to broadband and patient privacy.
Source: The Independent Florida Alligator
Mar 6, 2026 - A healthcare executive of a large rural healthcare network discusses use of artificial intelligence in healthcare for rural patients.
Feb 12, 2026 - Announces a bipartisan bill to permanently extend COVID-era Medicare telehealth flexibilities for rural areas.
Source: Office of Representative Zach Nunn
Feb 10, 2026 - The Teledermatology Serving Georgia program offers primary care providers hands-on training in dermatology procedures. The project will lead to timely interventions and improved patient outcomes, especially for those living in rural and medically underserved areas.
Source: Jagwire
Feb 3, 2026 - Discusses the rural-focused work at a primarily rural health system. Highlights the use of telehealth and artificial intelligence to tackle common rural health challenges.
Source: Health Leaders Media