Funds Announced by CMS Will Support Rural Hospitals Across Western New York and the Southern Tier
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) announced that New York State has been awarded $212 million in federal funding for Fiscal Year 2026 through the Rural Health Transformation Program, a historic investment authorized under H.R. 1 and the Working Families Tax Plan, and announced by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
“I’m extremely proud to share that New York will receive $212 million in funding to strengthen our rural hospitals and healthcare systems that serve so many hardworking families in Western New York and the Southern Tier,” said Congressman Nick Langworthy. “This funding is historic — and it will make a real difference for patients and providers across our communities.”
The Rural Health Transformation Program represents the largest federal investment in rural healthcare in American history. Established under H.R. 1 and the Working Families Tax Plan, the initiative invests $50 billion over five years to expand access to care, improve outcomes, modernize healthcare delivery, and support rural providers nationwide.
“Rural hospitals are the backbone of healthcare in our communities. For too long, many rural systems have faced mounting financial pressure, workforce shortages, and access challenges — forcing patients to travel farther for care,” Langworthy continued. “This investment helps change that.”
CMS confirmed that funding will support initiatives such as workforce development, expanded access to primary and specialty care, improved care coordination, and modern health technology investments designed to improve outcomes in rural communities.
“As a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, I was proud to help advance the policies that made this investment possible,” Langworthy added. “This is critical funding to strengthen the rural hospitals and healthcare systems that serve so many residents of New York’s 23rd Congressional District.”
The funding will be distributed beginning in Fiscal Year 2026, with oversight to ensure resources are used efficiently, responsibly, and with a clear focus on delivering measurable improvements for patients and providers.
“This is a historic win for rural healthcare in New York,” Langworthy concluded. “I will continue fighting in Congress to bring home resources that protect access to care, support healthcare workers, and strengthen the communities we serve.”
