Department Responds in Record Time to Meet the Growing Health Care Needs in Rural America
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Under Secretary Xochitl Torres Small today announced that USDA is awarding $10.5 million in Emergency Rural Health Care Grants to 18 rural health care organizations and community groups in Pennsylvania.
“No matter where you live, people deserve good health care, and the Biden-Harris Administration is committed to making that a reality throughout rural America,” Torres Small said. “Through the Emergency Rural Health Care Grants Program, USDA is improving access to the critical health care services rural people rely on every day here in rural Pennsylvania, and we are proud to have such strong partners like Representatives Cartwright and Wild.”
The Biden-Harris Administration made these funds available through its historic legislative package, the American Rescue Plan Act. Within months after the Act’s passage, USDA responded quickly by making this funding available to ensure the long-term availability of rural health care services.
The grants USDA is awarding will help rural hospitals and health care providers implement telehealth and nutrition assistance programs, increase staffing, build or renovate facilities, and purchase medical supplies.
Torres Small made the announcement at the Greater Pittston Ambulance Rescue Service Association. The association is one of 18 recipients to receive grant funds in Pennsylvania. It will use a $226,900 grant to purchase approximately 200 pieces of medical equipment for emergency and ambulatory services. The equipment includes LIFEPAK monitors, therapy cables and reusable blood pressure cuffs.
The complete news release including all 18 projects that were announced can be viewed on our website.