Congressman Andy Biggs has requested that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) approve Arizona's application for the Rural Health Transformation Program, which aims to improve healthcare access for rural residents.
On Monday, November 10, Biggs sent a letter to CMS noting that approximately 500,000 Arizonans in rural communities face challenges accessing healthcare resources.
Many residents must drive at least 30 minutes to reach the nearest hospital, often a Critical Access Hospital rather than a full-service facility.
Representatives Eli Crane, Juan Ciscomani, and Paul Gosar co-signed the letter.
Arizona's Inititative
Cactus Politics recently reported on Ciscomani’s letter to the CMS, arguing that Arizona should be given priority in rural healthcare and that the state needs to receive more than $200 million annually over the next five years to meet its needs.
Crane expressed support for the initiative, stating the importance of rural Arizona and noting that Congress passed a working families tax cut that included funding for rural hospitals.
Gosar referenced ongoing challenges in rural Arizona, stating that the Working Families Tax Cut, which was passed by Congress and signed into law by President Trump, “helps address the provider shortages, limited facilities, and resource gaps that rural communities in Arizona face.”
“Arizona’s healthcare providers continue to lead with innovative solutions—demonstrating why sustained federal partnership and investment are vital to ensuring quality care for all Arizonans,” Gosar continued.
A Needed Visit
Additionally, Biggs invited CMS Administrator Mehment Oz to Arizona's rural communities to observe challenges related to distance, resources, and accessibility firsthand.
“I’m inviting Dr. Oz to visit our great state and witness firsthand the challenges faced by Arizona’s rural communities. Arizona is ready to lead in this effort, and I urge CMS to afford our state the opportunity to do so,” Biggs explained.
The Rural Health Transformation Program was established through President Donald Trump's legislative package to strengthen healthcare infrastructure.
If approved, Arizona would use the funding to support local care models and expand access in rural areas.
"Arizona's rural communities are the backbone of our state," Biggs stated. "Arizona is uniquely positioned to lead the way in advancing these reforms and setting a standard for rural healthcare innovation."
