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(ABC 6 News) – Rural health care systems in Minnesota will be getting a much-needed boost thanks to federal funding.
The Minnesota Department of Health is receiving more than $193 million for rural health care through the Rural Health Transformation Program. All 50 states are receiving first-year awards for 2026, but Minnesota is getting some extra money for the state’s plan to improve health care delivery in rural areas.
Related: Iowa to receive federal funding to boost rural health care in 2026
According to MDH, the funding will support investments in new tools to bring care closer to home for rural residents, and expand the rural health care workforce through education and training.
Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Brooke Cunningham released the following statement stressing the importance of this funding:
“With rural Minnesota facing unprecedented access and funding challenges, this award comes at a crucial time. 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.”
It’s especially important for communities like Albert Lea, which are seeing major health care providers move out of town. It’s a trend that’s made it hard for many residents to find care close to them.
Related: Minnesota seeks $1 billion in federal funds for rural health care
The funding for 2026 is slightly less than what Minnesota applied for. MDH’s application asked for $1 billion over five years, averaging out to $200 million per year.
The Rural Health Transformation Program will provide up to $50 billion nationwide over five years to support innovative rural health care projects.
