With significant stakeholder input, the State of Kansas developed a comprehensive Rural Health Transformation Plan as part of its application for funding under the federal Rural Health Transformation Program. The plan includes five initiatives to be implemented over five years: 

1. Expand primary and secondary prevention programs 
2. Secure local access to primary care 
3. Build a sustainable rural workforce 
4. Enable value-based care
5. Harness data and technology 

Under each initiative, there are multiple programs and projects to transform all aspects of rural healthcare in Kansas.  

The federal government awarded Kansas $221.89 million in Year 1, the 6th largest award under the Rural Health Transformation Program. Going forward, funding will be tied to the State’s success in implementing its Plan. 

To access the State’s application and Year 1 budget, visit the Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s Rural Health Transformation Program webpage. 

Based on the Care Collaborative’s extensive experience working with rural communities, the State engaged the leadership team to help with the application and now to assist with Plan implementation. 

The Care Collaborative is responsible for operating several statewide programs, coordinating with other organizations to launch additional programs, and providing ongoing support to the State’s efforts.