Arkansas Rural Health Transformation Program Awards UAMS $5 Million to Fund 6 Initiatives

September 24, 2026 - 21:39

LITTLE ROCK - The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences has been awarded more than $5 million through the Arkansas Rural Health Transformation Program. The funding comes from the HEART and RISE ARKANSAS initiatives and will support six distinct projects aimed at improving health care in rural parts of the state.

The programs are designed to address long standing gaps in access, workforce shortages, and limited resources that often leave rural communities with fewer options for care. UAMS plans to use the money to launch or expand efforts that focus on primary care, maternal health, behavioral health, and telehealth services.

Leaders at UAMS said the investment reflects a growing recognition that rural residents face higher rates of chronic illness and travel longer distances to see specialists. The six initiatives will target different regions and populations, with an emphasis on prevention and community based support.

Details on each project will be released as implementation begins. Officials noted that partnerships with local clinics, hospitals, and community organizations will be central to making the programs work on the ground. The goal is to create lasting improvements rather than short term fixes.

The Arkansas Rural Health Transformation Program continues to direct state and federal resources toward areas that have historically been overlooked. This latest award to UAMS represents one of the larger single investments under the initiative so far.