Overview
- CMS says every state met the Nov. 5 deadline and will be considered for funding that begins disbursing in fiscal 2026 over five years.
- The $50 billion program splits evenly between equal baseline shares for approved states and a separate pool awarded through a merit review.
- States will administer the cooperative agreements, and CMS’ Office of Rural Health Transformation will provide technical assistance during implementation.
- Several states detailed plans this week, including Arkansas seeking $1 billion across four initiatives and Alabama outlining $500 million for 11 projects focused on access and viability.
- Analysts warn the fund will only partially offset broader Medicaid reductions, leaving continued financial pressure on rural providers.