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HB 772

Establish the Rural Health Transformation Program

136th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Tim Barhorst and 6 co-sponsors

Ohio creates Rural Health Transformation Program to improve healthcare access, infrastructure, and services in underserved rural communities through coordinated state interventions.

Introduced
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Bill Summary · HB 772

Legislative bill overview

HB 772 establishes the Rural Health Transformation Program in Ohio, designed to address healthcare access and quality challenges in rural communities. The bill creates a framework for targeted interventions, funding mechanisms, and coordination efforts to strengthen rural health infrastructure and services.

Why is this important

Rural areas in Ohio face documented challenges including provider shortages, hospital closures, higher disease burden, and limited specialty care access. This program could improve health outcomes and economic vitality in underserved rural counties, though success depends on adequate funding and implementation mechanisms.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source and allocation: Unclear whether new revenue is appropriated or if existing budgets are redirected; rural counties may compete unevenly for resources
  • Program specificity: Bill details on eligible interventions (telehealth expansion, loan forgiveness, facility grants) will determine real-world impact and cost sustainability
  • State versus local control: Questions about whether state-level mandates align with local rural health priorities and administrative capacity
  • Measurable outcomes: Standards for evaluating program success and accountability mechanisms are critical but often contentious in rural healthcare initiatives

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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