TALLAHASSEE, FL – Florida has been awarded more than $209 million through the federal Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP), a landmark investment aimed at revitalizing health care access and innovation across the state’s rural regions. Governor Ron DeSantis announced the funding on December 31, marking one of the largest federal health infrastructure infusions in Florida’s recent history.
The funds will allow the state to implement a sweeping plan focused on three central goals—building a stronger workforce, driving health care innovation, and improving access to quality care in underserved communities. According to the state’s Agency for Health Care Administration, the initiatives will include expanding clinical training and rural medical rotations, launching new rural and satellite clinics, and investing in mobile health units, telehealth systems, and advanced telespecialty services.
“This award reflects the voices of our providers, stakeholders, and rural communities who told us what they need most,” said Agency Secretary Shevaun Harris. “We are laser-focused on creating lasting impacts by building a stronger workforce, leveraging innovation, and expanding access to care. These investments will deliver sustainable improvements for rural families across Florida.”
Health leaders across the state praised the announcement, noting its potential to bridge longstanding service gaps in regions where residents often face significant travel distances for care. Justin Senior, CEO of the Safety Net Hospital Alliance of Florida, said the funding will “improve access and care in rural communities where there is often a shortage of providers.” He emphasized that every family “should have access to high-quality care regardless of their zip code.”
Jonathan Chapman, President and CEO of the Florida Association of Community Health Centers, called the program “a real difference-maker” for recruiting and retaining health professionals in rural areas. Sarah Catalanotto, Executive Director of the Suwannee River Area Health Education Center, described it as “a once-in-a-generation funding opportunity” that will expand services for behavioral health, chronic disease management, and preventive care.
Rural hospital leaders echoed that sentiment. David Walker, CEO of George E. Weems Memorial Hospital, said the investments in telehealth and mobile health units would “help us keep patients local, reduce unnecessary transfers, and provide the kind of care our communities deserve.”
Procurements and program rollouts related to the RHTP are expected to begin soon through the Agency for Health Care Administration, which will oversee implementation across participating regions.
Florida has been awarded $209 million through the Rural Health Transformation Program to expand care, modernize rural health systems, and ensure greater access for families statewide.