Rural Health Transformation Program
Rural healthcare is entering a new era of investment and transformation. Discover what the Rural Health Transformation Program means for Missouri and the communities it serves.
What is the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP)?
The Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) is a landmark federal investment designed to support the future of rural healthcare delivery across the United States. The program provides states with resources to address longstanding rural healthcare challenges and develop strategies tailored to the needs of their communities.
The RHTP will distribute $50 billion nationwide over five federal fiscal years (2026–2030), with $10 billion available each year. Funding is structured through both baseline and workload-based components, allowing states with approved plans to establish a foundation of support while also competing for additional funding based on rural need and the strength of their transformation strategies.
Missouri’s Rural Health Transformation Program: ToRCH Care
Missouri’s Rural Health Transformation Program, known as ToRCH Care (Transformation of Rural Community Health), is the state’s strategy for implementing RHTP across Missouri.
ToRCH Care is a state-led initiative managed by the MO HealthNet Division within the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS) through the Rural Health Transformation Office. The program is designed to strengthen rural healthcare infrastructure, support local partnerships, and create a more coordinated approach to serving rural communities.
Missouri DSS announced that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has approved $216,276,817.66 in Year 1 (through September 30, 2027) funding for the state’s Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP)
Missouri’s strategy focuses on five key areas:
-
Access to Care - Expanding access to essential services, including primary care, behavioral health, and maternity care.
-
Sustainable Operations - Supporting rural healthcare organizations as they collaborate, share resources, and strengthen long-term stability.
-
Workforce Development - Supporting efforts to recruit, train, and retain healthcare professionals needed in rural communities.
-
Preventive and Value-Based Care - Encouraging approaches that emphasize prevention, early intervention, and improving health outcomes.
-
Technology and Innovation - Supporting the use of digital health tools, telehealth, and other technologies that improve connections between patients and providers.
Missouri Association of Rural Health Clinics
PO Box 296 Jefferson City, MO 65102
The Missouri Association of Rural Health Clinics is managed in partnership with the Missouri Rural Health Association.