West Virginia Secures $202 Million for Rural Health Transformation

West Virginia has secured more than $202 million in new funding for rural healthcare infrastructure, according to a report from governor.wv.gov.

This second-year infusion from the federal Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) brings the state’s total two-year investment to over $401 million.

The additional $202,081,355 award was announced Monday by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). This funding represents an increase of approximately $2.6 million over the state’s initial first-year allocation of $199.5 million.

Expanding care across 55 counties

Governor Patrick Morrisey stated that the funds will help expand access to care, strengthen rural hospitals, and address chronic health challenges throughout the state. The initiative aims to bring quality care closer to home and support West Virginians in returning to the workforce by improving health outcomes.

The RHTP is a $50 billion, five-year federal initiative designed to modernize rural healthcare across all 50 states. It was established through the Working Families Tax Cuts Act signed by President Trump, providing $10 billion annually to states based on their progress in implementing approved healthcare transformation plans.

West Virginia enters this second phase having already obligated 100 percent of its initial award. As of the October 30 federal deadline, the state finalized 145 signed awards and agreements covering all 55 counties. Recipients have also contributed an additional $21.9 million in matching resources, including cash and in-kind contributions.

Targeted healthcare improvements

The investments are directed toward several critical areas of rural medicine. Current projects include:

Restoring maternal healthcare services.
Expanding mobile clinics and telehealth capabilities.
Integrating advanced diagnostic and monitoring technology into rural communities.
Improving the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases, such as diabetes.
Addressing critical shortages in the healthcare workforce.

CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz noted that the program provides states with the flexibility to build more sustainable healthcare systems.

“As the program enters its second year, this next round of funding will help West Virginia build on the progress made in year one and continue working toward lasting improvements in access, quality, and health outcomes for rural communities,” said Dr. Oz. CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet

The state’s Department of Health is now shifting its focus toward implementation. This involves tracking project milestones, monitoring expenditures, and measuring improvements in actual healthcare outcomes. To ensure the long-term viability of these programs, projects must demonstrate how they will remain sustainable once the five-year federal funding period concludes.

Funding Period	Award Amount
Year 1 Allocation	$199,500,000
Year 2 Allocation	$202,081,355
Total Combined Funding	$401,557,453

Each award is subject to strict federal cost rules, budget reviews, and performance requirements to ensure the effective use of taxpayer dollars. First-year funds must be fully spent by September 30, 2027.

Governor Morrisey credited President Trump, Secretary Kennedy, and Dr. Oz for recognizing the specific challenges facing rural communities and supporting state-driven solutions.