ST. PAUL — Minnesota is set to receive the first installment of Rural Health Transformation Program funding from the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services.
The funding is part of the legislation passed July 4, 2025, that implemented sweeping changes to the country's public service programs like Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
The Rural Health Transformation Program includes $50 billion to be awarded to states over the next five years.
All 50 states received first-year base funding, but Minnesota was also awarded "significant additional funds recognizing Minnesota's innovative plan" to address rural health care challenges, according to a news release from the state Department of Health.
Funding will support: new technology tools to bring care closer to home for rural residents with telehealth; initiatives to improve outcomes for Minnesotans with or at risk of developing cardiovascular disease, diabetes and chronic kidney disease; and expanding the rural health care workforce.
Money will also go toward enhancing technology-enabled care delivery, including mobile and community-based services; strengthening provider partnerships; and bolstering the financial stability of rural providers through investments in technology and data infrastructure.
“With rural Minnesota facing unprecedented access and funding challenges, this award comes at a crucial time,” stated Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Brooke Cunningham in a news release.
“It is an important investment in our rural communities, and we are excited to begin working with our partners to advance access to high-quality care, improve outcomes and ensure sustainable services in Greater Minnesota for years to come.”
The MDH's proposal for funding, submitted Nov. 4, asked for $1 billion over the next five years. The proposal was crafted after extensive collaboration with rural community stakeholders, such as hospitals and health systems, safety net clinics, tribes and local public health agencies.
State officials will continue to engage stakeholders as implementation of the program begins.
-
A new state aid covers part of the operating levy for school districts that have lots of cabins. Some districts say they'll offset the levy if voters approve it, meaning more money for the school, while taxes stay the same or go down. -
Plus: Bemidji is closer to being the next home of a YMCA after a ceremonial groundbreaking; and local governments receive assistance to replace emerald ash borer-damaged trees.
-
Lorie Shaull/KAXENeighbors converge for fair fun: showing or judging livestock, enjoying classic or new foods on offer, admiring prize-winning artwork or baked goods or simply gathering in community. -
Canva illustrationThe driver of the semitruck is in custody as of Aug. 21, 2026, and is facing two felony counts of criminal vehicular homicide. -
Plus: Changes to 'roadless rule' could open areas of Superior National Forest to logging; and researchers consider climate change's impacts on pathogen spread.
-
Contributed/Adobe Stock via Minnesota News ConnectionPublic health experts said states can better prepare for future illness outbreaks by keeping a sharp eye on climate change. -
Emma Krab/KAXEStauber, state officials and local mayors voiced their opposition at a press conference Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2026. -
Lorie Shaull/Special to KAXEThe state reported the Glacier Ice House employee was one of several laid off during their disability leave. But while others were allowed to move to open positions, this employee was not. -
Contributed/NewRange Copper NickelThe Babbitt mine and Hoyt Lakes processing plant is expected to impact about 1,100 acres of wetlands, according to the company's permit application. -
Plus: The FBI launches a new "Voices Not Forgotten" initiative to raise awareness of cold cases in tribal nations.
