WHAT: A roundtable discussion focused on rural health initiatives, including opportunities under the recently enacted One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBB), which allocates $50 billion for the Rural Health Transformation Program. Participants will explore strategies to improve access to healthcare, leverage emerging technologies like AI for prevention and chronic disease management, foster partnerships among rural hospitals and providers, and address challenges such as hospital closures and clinician recruitment. This event aims to inform stakeholders on how New Hampshire will develop and submit a state transformation plan to secure federal funding by the December 31, 2025, deadline.
WHEN: Tuesday, August 20, 2025 – 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. ET
WHERE: Androscoggin Valley Hospital – 59 Page Hill Rd, Berlin, NH 03570
(Note: Media are encouraged to arrive by 9:45 a.m. for setup.)
WHO: Hosted by New Hampshire Executive Councilors John Stephen and Joe Kenney.
- Joe Kenney: Executive Councilor representing the North Country, with a focus on rural community needs.
Additional participants may include local healthcare providers, state officials, and community leaders. - John Stephen: Executive Councilor for the greater Manchester area and Former New Hampshire Health & Human Services Commissioner with decades of experience consulting on HHS projects across a dozen states.
WHY: With the OBBB providing $10 billion annually from 2026-2030 for states with approved rural health plans, this roundtable offers a timely platform to discuss actionable steps for enhancing rural healthcare access, quality, and sustainability in New Hampshire. Attendees will gain insights into federal requirements, potential funding allotments based on rural population metrics, and innovative models like telehealth, value-based care, and technology-driven solutions.
MEDIA CONTACT:
For more information, RSVPs, or interview requests, contact:
Chris Maidment
Phone: (540) 598 1130
Email: [email protected]
Media are invited to attend and cover the event. Photo and interview opportunities will be available. For background on the OBBB and Rural Health Transformation Program, refer to the Holland & Knight analysis at: https://www.hklaw.com/en/insights/publications/2025/07/one-big-beautiful-bill-includes-50b-rural-health.
