Statewide Session March 31 to Highlight Tennessee Rural Health Transformation Program Funding Opportunities

NASHVILLE - The Tennessee Department of Health will offer health leaders, partners, and stakeholders insight on new funding opportunities in the Tennessee Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) with an information session and overview at 10:00 a.m., Central, on Tue., March 31, 2026.

The session will provide a high-level overview of the RHTP vision and how the RHTP goals align with the state's broader health care vision. Information on competitive funding opportunities will be outlined for interested applicants. Session participants will get information on next steps in the RHTP's grant process, how to submit follow-up questions, and where to find more information. Registration for the RHTP information session is available online.

The RHTP information session follows Tennessee's award in late 2025 of $206,888,882 in federal funding through the Rural Health Transformation Program. The RHTP is a U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) initiative announced last year which will invest $50 billion over five years nationally to improve access to care, quality, and health outcomes in rural communities nationwide.

"This is a historic investment in rural Tennessee and a major win for Tennessee families who deserve access to better care closer to home," Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee said. "From expanding access to care to strengthening our rural health workforce, this funding builds on the work we've done and positions Tennessee as a national leader in rural healthcare transformation."

CMS awarded funds based on states' ability to deliver long-term, sustainable improvements in rural health systems. Tennessee's plan aligns with federal priorities focused on value-based care, prevention, innovation, and workforce development, and reflects a comprehensive, collaborative effort of state and federal partners.

Tennessee's Rural Health Transformation Plan advances five core goals:

• Rural Healthcare Transformation: Modernize facilities and expand value-based care models
• Maternal and Child Health: Support healthy starts for rural families
• Prevention & Community Health: Expand preventive services and early detection
• Health Technology & Infrastructure: Improve care coordination through digital tools
• Workforce Development: Train and retain a skilled rural healthcare workforce

"With the support of the Governor's Office and General Assembly, this funding will help Tennessee innovate and implement strategies to improve health in rural communities over the next 5 years," Tennessee Health Commissioner Dr. John Dunn said. "By investing in prevention, technology, and workforce development, we're building a stronger, more resilient rural health system for the long term."

The Rural Health Transformation Program is designed to deliver lasting improvements that extend beyond the five-year grant period, ensuring Tennesseans-no matter where they live-have access to high-quality, affordable healthcare.

Visit the Rural Health Transformation Program website for more information about the initiative, Frequently-Asked Questions, and updates on rural health opportunities and progress in Tennessee.

Click for the federal award announcement from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.