Gov. Sanders releases $5.2 million for rural hospitals

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by Talk Business & Politics staff ([email protected]) ago 21 views 

Gov. Sarah Sanders and the Arkansas Department of Human Services and the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration announced Thursday (Aug. 1) the release of over $5.2 million in federal funding to support the long-term sustainability of rural hospitals.

The Rural Hospital Sustainability Program is designed to strengthen rural communities, serve patients, promote economic development, and preserve access to healthcare.

The following hospitals will receive their six-month funding allocation in the next few weeks based on their attainment of operational metrics:

  • South Mississippi County Regional Medical Center – $1.72 million
  • Chicot Memorial – $1.37 million
  • Mena Regional Health System – $1.37 million
  • DeWitt Hospital and Nursing Home – $774,000

“These hospitals are leading the way in making smart, lasting changes to benefit rural Arkansans. I’m proud to support their long-term sustainability to help them effectively and efficiently serve all Arkansans,” Sanders said.

Funding comes from President Joe Biden’s federal American Rescue Plan (ARPA) of 2021. No member of Arkansas’ Congressional delegation voted for ARPA.

“All hospitals, including rural hospitals, play a pivotal role in caring for Arkansans across our state, and these funds are intended to help steady the financial situations of these critical facilities. This maximizes the use of the ARPA funding as it supports rural hospitals beyond one-time money,” said Arkansas Department of Human Services Secretary Kristi Putnam.

“Rural hospitals across Arkansas are in a better position to serve patients as a result of their work in this program,” said DFA Secretary Jim Hudson. “In addition to improved patient care, a financially strong local hospital is a key component of an area’s economic success. A partnership between the Governor’s Office, General Assembly, and rural hospital leaders made this program possible, maximizing the impact of grant funding.”

Funding allocations to participating hospitals were determined by a formula that considers the unique fiscal reality and need of each participating hospital.