Rural Health Care
Supporting healthcare facilities in bringing world class medical care to rural areas through increased connectivity
Upcoming Dates
How It Works
The Rural Health Care program funds two types of services.
You can apply for funding for Voice and Data, Broadband, or both.
Voice and Data
If you need voice and other telecommunication services, you may be eligible for funding through the Telecommunications Program.
Discount Rate: Determined using the urban/rural differential.
Broadband
If you need broadband services, network equipment, etc., you may be eligible for funding through the Healthcare Connect Fund (HCF) Program.
Discount Rate: Flat 65% discount on eligible expenses.
The Process
These steps will help you navigate the process to get funding.
Determine your eligibility
Develop evaluation criteria and request services
Evaluate bids and select a service provider
Submit a funding request
Certify service start and end dates
Work with your service provider to invoice USAC
Announcements
FY2024 Annual Report Due September 30!
Aug 29, 2025
All Healthcare Connect Fund (HCF) participants receiving Rural Health Care (RHC) program funding are required to submit an annual report to USAC by September 30 following the funding year (FY) in which funding was provided. Per FCC Order 19-78, both individual and consortia applicants must submit the report to USAC. Beginning in FY2024, applicants should...
Read MoreSubmit Your FY2026 Request for Services Forms!
Jul 1, 2025
Beginning on July 1, 2025, applicants can start the competitive bidding process for Funding Year (FY) 2026....
Read MoreFCC Announces Availability of Unused Funds to Fully Fund Rural Health Care Program Demand...
Jun 25, 2025
On June 25, 2025, the FCC Wireline Competition Bureau directed USAC to carry forward up to $129.30...
Read More