Rural Healthcare

The purpose of the SHLB Rural Health Care (RHC) Policy Group is to support the underlying goals, administration, and implementation of the Rural Health Care Program (which includes HCF and the Telecom Program).  

As the country advances its goal to connect people remotely (at home and wherever they are), the Group will explore ways to learn, educate, and advocate for broadband policies that advance equitable access to healthcare.

The SHLB RHC Policy Group aims to develop new and influence existing Federal policies that impact the RHC Program and the healthcare sector generally. Group members engage with each other and with others in the field to develop the expertise required to advocate for these policies (through filings, meetings with policymakers, etc.).

The SHLB RHC Policy Group provides a forum to exchange information to educate members about the RHC Program, advances in healthcare, and the intersection between healthcare, broadband, and the work of community anchor institutions.

April Meeting Summaries

April 9, 2025: We discussed future SHLB policy and upcoming USAC calls, as well as the formation of SHLB Progress Committees to gather and share key issues. We're forming a subgroup—ideally one person per organization—to help prioritize our top concerns and break down the many challenges ahead. We also touched on call structure and etiquette. Interested in participating? Add your name to the sign-up sheet here.

Full meeting notes for this and prior meetings are available to members here.