Find upcoming and recent funding opportunities, and learn more about FORHP programs.
The Federal Office of Rural Health Policy (FORHP) coordinates activities related to rural health care within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Part of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), FORHP has department-wide responsibility for analyzing the possible effects of policy on residents of rural communities. Created by Section 711 of the Social Security Act, FORHP advises the Secretary on health issues within these communities, including the effects of Medicare and Medicaid on rural citizens’ access to care, the viability of rural hospitals, and the availability of physicians and other health professionals.
FORHP administers grant programs designed to build health care capacity at both the local and State levels. These grants provide funds to 50 State Offices of Rural Health (SORH) to support on-going improvements in care, and to rural hospitals through the Medicare Rural Hospital Flexibility Grant (Flex). Through its community-based programs, FORHP encourages network development among rural health care providers; upgrades in emergency medical services; and places and trains people in the use of automatic external defibrillators. FORHP also oversees the Black Lung Clinics grant program and the Radiation Exposure Screening and Education grant program. While these efforts are not solely focused on rural health issues, many of the populations affected reside in rural areas.
Community Programs
Rural communities face unique health care challenges. Our community-based grant programs address these and increase access to care.
State and Hospital Programs
We provide technical assistance and support to rural hospitals.
Policy Research Programs
We support the Rural Health Research Centers program. We also fund policy programs. These programs inform one another on current and future policies.
State Fact Sheets
See a state-by-state breakdown of rural health grants for the current fiscal year.