States Deploy Rural Health Transformation Program Funding for Maternal Care Access
States are using federal Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) funds to address maternal care deserts, workforce shortages, and access barriers in rural communities. Key initiatives include financial support for low-volume labor and delivery units, telehealth expansion, workforce development for doulas and midwives, and infrastructure investments. States face an October 30, 2026 deadline to obligate first-year RHTP awards and are accelerating implementation of maternal health programs. Over 130 rural labor and delivery units have closed since 2020, and one in three U.S. counties lacks obstetric providers.
Medicaid MCOs operating in rural areas must prepare for new state initiatives supporting maternal providers, telehealth models, and community-based care that will affect network adequacy, capitation rates, and quality metrics.