Stratis Health proudly recognizes National Rural Health Day, celebrating the role rural communities play in our country’s vitality and reaffirming our commitment to advancing rural health. As a leader in improving rural health, Stratis Health supports innovative solutions and sustainable strategies for rural health care delivery. 

This year’s observance coincides with the establishment of the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). The RHTP represents a $50 billion, five-year federal initiative to help rural communities tackle challenges posed by significant Medicaid cuts and catalyze transformative change in rural health systems. 

As part of the RHTP Information Hub, co-led by national organizations, Stratis Health provided technical assistance and strategic guidance to states developing their Rural Health Transformation Plans for rural-relevant strategies to invest in infrastructure and services that foster innovative care models, workforce development, and technology-driven solutions. 

In Stratis Health’s home state of Minnesota, the organization offered input to the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) to inform the state’s approach to the RHTP, contributing expertise and ideas in rural practice workflow efficiency, opioid use disorder care, community-based palliative care, and social needs resource referrals. Our collaborative efforts with community health centers, mental health programs, and rural hospitals aim to ensure resources are maximized for vulnerable populations.  

“Rural communities are the backbone of our nation, and their health systems deserve effective and sustainable solutions,” said Jennifer Lundblad, PhD, President and CEO of Stratis Health. “While the Rural Health Transformation Plan funding will not offset the impact of Medicaid cuts, it is a critical opportunity for creating infrastructure and systems that prepare for impending changes. At Stratis Health, we are committed to partnering with states and organizations to ensure these funds create lasting impact for rural health care organizations and rural communities.” 

For more on RHTP strategies, check out this recent Minnesota Physician Journal article by Stratis Health thought leaders Jennifer Lundblad, PhD, MBA, Karla Weng, MPH, and Sarah Brinkman, MBA, MA.