Rural Healthcare Fund Opens Applications, South Dakota Eyes $500 Million

States can now apply for a $50 billion federal fund to bolster rural healthcare, with South Dakota eligible for $500 million over five years, according to Senate Majority Leader John Thune in a KOTA Territory News interview last month. Rural hospitals face challenges like low patient volumes, workforce shortages, and aging infrastructure.Shelly Ten Naple, CEO of the Community Healthcare Association of the Dakotas, highlighted workforce shortages as a persistent issue. Healthcare centers are brainstorming ways to use the funds, focusing on workforce development, data, and technology to enhance preventative care and reduce hospital visits. “Primary care is uniquely positioned to meet prevention goals,” Ten Naple said, referencing the Make America Healthy Again strategy.States must apply by November 5, with awardees announced by year-end.