Gov. Abbott Announces $56 Million in Rural Prevention and Wellness Care

AUSTIN, TX — Gov. Greg Abbott announced that the Texas Health and Human Services Commission will award $56 million in federal funding to rural hospitals to expand prevention, wellness and nutrition programs.

The funding is part of the state’s Rural Texas Strong initiative, which aims to improve health outcomes in rural communities by addressing chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, respiratory illness and obesity.

“Rural Texans deserve access to quality care,” Abbott said. “This investment will help expand care, combat chronic disease, and bring prevention and nutrition resources directly to the communities that need them the most.”

Hospitals may use the funding to expand health screenings, offer after-hours care, enhance community wellness programs and improve access to healthy food.

Texas Health and Human Services Executive Commissioner Stephanie Muth said the initiative will help strengthen long-term health efforts in underserved areas.

“Good health starts with reliable access to care and nutritious food,” Muth said. “This investment helps rural communities strengthen prevention efforts and support long-term health.”

Eligible public and private rural hospitals can apply through a competitive process, with applications due by June 4.

The $56 million is part of a larger $281 million first-year award Texas received through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ Rural Health Transformation Program. State officials estimate Texas will receive approximately $1.4 billion over five years through the federally funded program.