Rural Health Care

About Rural Health Care

California’s rural hospitals are essential lifelines for over 2 million residents, providing critical health care services and acting as economic anchors in their communities. However, these hospitals face severe financial challenges, with more than half operating at a loss. This financial strain has led to the reduction or elimination of vital services, such as obstetrics and cancer treatments. The California Hospital Association is actively advocating for immediate financial support for the development of sustainable funding models to ensure that all Californians, regardless of location, have access to the health care they need and deserve.  

The California Critical Access Hospital Network (CCAHN) creates collaborative working relationships among California’s critical access hospitals to strengthen their ability to care for their communities through sharing resources, education, and innovation.  

Webinar Recording on Rural Community Health Worker Expansion Available

During a recent Imperial CalAIM PATH Collaborative meeting, facilitators spoke about preparation for investment in community health workers through workforce initiatives funded by the federal Rural Health Transformation Program. A webinar recording has details about the efforts to strengthen rural health systems and expand access to essential services.  

5 Things To Know: HCAI Applies to Rural Health Transformation Program

The Department of Health Care Access and Information (HCAI) has officially submitted the state’s application for the Rural Health Transformation Program — a federal initiative aimed at strengthening health care in rural communities by addressing access, workforce shortages, and infrastructure challenges.heir preferred language and in an alternative format (if applicable).