State seeks feedback to compete for federal funding for rural healthcare 

SANTA FE — The New Mexico Health Care Authority (HCA) released a Request for Information seeking public comment to inform the state’s strategic approach to applying for and implementing the federal Rural Health Transformation Program.  

The Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program will award $50 billion over five years to approved states to address specific health delivery challenges in rural areas. The program focuses on leveraging technologies for chronic disease management, developing strategies for long-term financial sustainability of rural hospitals.  

The HCA is seeking input from healthcare providers, patients, Tribal communities, associations, advocacy organizations, and others interested in supporting rural health care to help prioritize funding areas for maximum impact. 

If awarded, New Mexico estimates it could receive approximately $100 million per year for up to five years and may also receive discretionary funding above that amount. 

The state is seeking public comment to assist in prioritizing areas for maximum funding impact and strategies for sustaining critical services in New Mexico. RHT Program funds cannot replace state funding for general Medicaid services and are not intended to compensate for lost operating revenue from other federal policy impacts. Not all eligible health-related activities will receive funding. 

New Mexico’s Request for Information closes October 3. More information is available on the HCA Rural Health Transformation webpage: https://www.hca.nm.gov/rural-health-transformation-program/. 

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