North Dakota Governor Plans Special Session for Health Funding

North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong is set to convene a special session of the 69th Legislative Assembly on January 21, 2024. This session aims to address the allocation of federal funding for the state’s Rural Health Transformation Program, which seeks to enhance health care access in rural communities. The state has applied for $500 million from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), with a decision expected by December 31, 2023.

The funding application was submitted on November 3, 2023, as part of a broader effort to improve the quality and outcomes of health care in North Dakota’s rural regions. If approved, the state Legislature will need to appropriate these funds for effective utilization. Governor Armstrong expressed optimism about the opportunity to reshape rural health care, stating, “I appreciate the collaboration with legislative leadership and look forward to a special session laser-focused on the task at hand — appropriating these federal dollars in the most efficient and effective way possible to improve the well-being of our citizens.”

Focus Areas of the Rural Health Transformation Program

The funding will support four key initiatives aimed at bolstering rural health care. These initiatives include strengthening the rural health workforce, promoting preventive care and healthy eating, improving access to high-quality health services, and enhancing the connection between technology, data, and health providers.

These areas were identified following a comprehensive 30-day survey conducted by the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services, which garnered over 1,200 responses. Additionally, three live meetings attracted participation from more than 300 individuals, reflecting a strong community interest in improving rural health outcomes.

A federal law has allocated $50 billion for rural health care over a five-year period. Half of this funding will be distributed automatically to states, while the remaining amount will depend on state applications and metrics demonstrating potential health impacts in rural areas.

Should North Dakota’s application be successful, Governor Armstrong will issue an executive order to formally convene the Legislature for the special session. This strategic move underscores the state’s commitment to addressing health disparities and improving quality of life for its rural residents.

The anticipated special session highlights a significant step toward enhancing health care infrastructure in North Dakota, promoting a proactive approach to health challenges faced by rural communities.