Trump Administration Announces $76 Million Boost For Rural Health Care Across NYS

New York will receive more than $76 million in federal funding to strengthen rural health care networks, expand access to medical services and modernize health technology, the Trump administration announced.

The funding comes through the federal Rural Health Transformation Program, a $50 billion, five-year initiative administered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. New York was awarded more than $212 million for fiscal year 2026 under the broader program.

The latest $76 million investment will focus on regional coordination and technology-enhanced primary care, according to the administration. Funding will support partnerships among rural hospitals, primary care providers, Federally Qualified Health Centers, behavioral health providers and community organizations.

The money is also expected to support workforce development, including expanded clinical rotations, employer-based training and remote training technology.

New York’s rural health plan seeks to address provider shortages, gaps in infrastructure and disparities in access to primary and behavioral health care.

Approximately 2.1 million New Yorkers, 10.6% of the state’s population, live in rural communities, according to the state’s program application.

Long Island Reps. Nick LaLota and Andrew Garbarino welcomed the funding.

“The Working Families Tax Cuts are delivering meaningful investments to communities across New York,” LaLota said. “Through this historic legislation, the Rural Health Transformation Program represents a significant commitment to strengthening rural communities, which remain an essential part of our state’s economy, character, and identity.”

Garbarino said the funding would improve cooperation among health care providers.

“This investment will help rural hospitals, health centers, and community providers across New York better coordinate care and ensure patients can access the services they need,” Garbarino said.

New York’s broader rural health strategy also calls for expanded telehealth, technology-enhanced primary care, workforce recruitment and retention, improved cybersecurity and greater coordination between hospitals and community providers.