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
SAM.gov UEI Requirement
Feb 23, 2026
Beginning August 2026, USAC will begin using SAM.gov banking information to remit payment for all Universal Service Fund (USF) invoices. All service providers must have an active SAM.gov Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) on their FCC Form 498 and must have a valid bank account associated with their UEI. For more information, see the SAM.gov UEI Requirement webpage.
Read MoreService Provider Payment System Unavailable December 13
Dec 4, 2025
Service providers will not be able to make payments using E-File on Saturday, December 13 from 6...
Read More