Rural Health Transformation Program Survey Findings

This special report presents the findings from a survey conducted by TruBridge among rural hospital executives during the Rural Health Collaborative event. The survey aimed to gauge perceptions regarding the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) and the impact of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) on rural healthcare. The report outlines the operational challenges faced by rural providers, emphasizing concerns about reimbursement stability and coverage disruptions that could hinder transformation efforts. It details that while rural leaders support the RHTP, they express apprehension about the potential negative effects of Medicaid-related pressures. Key priorities identified by executives include workforce support, service line preservation, and technology investments. The report also highlights the need for rural leaders to have a stronger influence on funding priorities and emphasizes the importance of maintaining access to essential services during the implementation of transformation initiatives. Overall, the findings indicate a cautious optimism among rural executives regarding the RHTP as a stabilizing tool, despite uncertainties surrounding its long-term effectiveness.