Auburn University awarded $15.3M to help improve rural health care access
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Auburn University has been awarded $15.3 million through the Alabama Rural Health Transformation Program.
The funds were awarded through the state program and will be used for three key initiatives including:
- $6.3 million to establish a shared digital health and cybersecurity network that improves access to care, information sharing and technology support for rural health care providers in 12 counties
- $5 million to establish a multidisciplinary Rural Workforce Academy focused on strengthening the pipeline of health care professionals serving 12 rural Alabama counties
- $4 million to develop a network of local health care access sites connected to a central virtual clinic, expanding preventive and primary care services in rural communities
“This investment reflects the power of collaboration in tackling some of the most pressing health care challenges facing rural Alabama. It positions Auburn to deepen our leadership in rural health solutions while creating opportunities to improve access to care, strengthen local communities and enhance quality of life across the state.”
Auburn President Christopher B. Roberts
Alabama Rural Health Transformation Program
The statewide ARHTP plan was developed by the state. In total, it has awarded 138 grants totaling more than $144 million to health care providers and institutions across the state.
Auburn’s multifaceted proposal was developed and submitted through the Auburn Health Transformation Collaborative under the leadership of Harrison College of Pharmacy Dean Leigh Ann Ross. Other departments involved included:
- College of Veterinary Medicine Dean Calvin Johnson
- College of Sciences and Mathematics Dean Edward Thomas
- College of Nursing Dean Gregg Newschwander
- College of Human Sciences Dean Susan Hubbard
- College of Liberal Arts Dean Jason Hicks
- College of Education Dean Jeffrey Fairbrother
- Samuel Ginn College of Engineering Dean Mario Eden
“Alabama is serious about creating systematic changes through the ARHTP to ensure every citizen has access to quality care. This program is enabling institutions covering every part of the state to improve healthcare for Alabamians through projects that are both innovative and sustainable. From the federal policymakers and state administrators to our professional healthcare leaders, I commend all the thoughtful work dedicated to ensuring the success of this program.”
Gov. Kay Ivey
