NCDHHS Announces NC Rural Health Transformation Program Director

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services today announced Maggie Woods as the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) Director to lead North Carolina's effort in transforming health care and access for more than 3.5 million rural North Carolinians.

Woods comes from a background of public service and currently serves as director of the N.C. Department of Information Technology's Office of Digital Opportunity, where she led efforts to close the state's digital divide, enabling North Carolinians to benefit from online resources and services through access to the necessary technology and digital skills.

"RHTP is a vital investment in rural communities in North Carolina," said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai. "We are excited to welcome Director Woods to the team as we work quickly to get these federal dollars out the door to the communities that need them the most and ensure we have a structure in place for local decision-making."

"I am honored to join NCDHHS and work with the team to build a stronger, more connected health system that meets the needs of today while preparing for the future," said Maggie Woods. "I grew up in rural America, and I understand first-hand many of the healthcare challenges facing rural communities. This program represents an opportunity to strengthen health systems, expand access to care and ensure that everyone across our state has the opportunity to achieve their best health."

NCRHTP is a statewide initiative supported by $213 million in federal funding approved by the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, designed to address longstanding challenges in rural health care, including workforce shortages, hospital sustainability and gaps in access to mental health and primary care services. The program will support more than 400 rural health facilities and bring hundreds of millions of dollars in federal investment to the state over the next five years.

"We are happy to have Director Woods join our team, and we look forward to continuing our work together to improve health care in our rural communities," said Debra Farrington, NCDHHS Deputy Secretary for Health. "We recognize how important this program is for all North Carolinians, and having leadership with experience and knowledge of rural communities across our state is critical."

Through the NCRHTP, NCDHHS is implementing a comprehensive set of strategies to strengthen rural health systems and improve outcomes. A key component of this work is the launch of locally governed NC ROOTS (Rural Organizations Orchestrating Transformation for Sustainability) Hubs, which will serve as regional networks connecting medical, behavioral health and social supports.

In addition, the program will expand access to prevention services, chronic disease management and nutrition programs, while increasing the availability of mental health and substance use disorder treatment. Investments and support for providers transitioning to value-based care models will enable more efficient care delivery while supporting sustainability in the rural health workforce.

North Carolinians are encouraged to learn more about the NCRHTP by visiting ncdhhs.gov/rhtp.

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