Auburn University awarded $15.3 million through ARHTP

Auburn University (AU) has been granted $15.3 million from the Alabama Rural Health Transformation Program (ARHTP) for its healthcare initiatives.

“This investment reflects the power of collaboration in tackling some of the most pressing health care challenges facing rural Alabama,” said AU President Christopher B. Roberts. “It positions Auburn to deepen our leadership in rural health solutions while creating opportunities to improve access to care, strengthen local communities and enhance quality of life across the state.”

Funding will be used for the following: 

• $6.3 million to establish a shared digital health and cybersecurity network that improves access to care, information sharing and technology support for rural health care providers in 12 counties.
• $5 million to establish a multidisciplinary Rural Workforce Academy focused on strengthening the pipeline of health care professionals serving 12 rural Alabama counties.
• $4 million to develop a network of local health care access sites connected to a central virtual clinic, expanding preventive and primary care services in rural communities.

AU was among others to benefit from a total of $144 million in grants from the state through ARHTP. 

“Alabama is serious about creating systematic changes through the ARHTP to ensure every citizen has access to quality care,” said Gov. Kay Ivey. “This program is enabling institutions covering every part of the state to improve healthcare for Alabamians through projects that are both innovative and sustainable."

"From the federal policymakers and state administrators to our professional healthcare leaders, I commend all the thoughtful work dedicated to ensuring the success of this program.”