Rural Health Transformation Program Funds: Finding sustainability

In this episode of Fresh Perspectives in Social Work, we explore how states and organizations can use Rural Health Transformation Program funds to drive long-term sustainability. 

Rural health strategy expert Zil Joyce Dixon Romero, Senior State Government Affairs Manager at the National Rural Health Association (NRHA), shares practical insights into the barriers states face, proven strategies for sustaining impact, and how to navigate evolving policy environments. 

You’ll hear perspectives on maximizing funding, building creative partnerships, and aligning strategy with shifting federal and state priorities, including real-world considerations for implementation success. 

Whether you’re a state official, healthcare administrator, or community partner, this episode offers actionable guidance to help you sustain funding impact, navigate policy shifts, and strengthen rural health systems. 

Highlights: 

• Strategies to extend the impact of Rural Health Transformation Program funding 

• Common barriers to sustainability—and how to overcome them 

• The role of partnerships and policy alignment in long-term success 

Resources mentioned: 

• National Rural Health Association (NRHA) – Rural health policy and advocacy resources 

• BerryDunn’s Rural Healthcare Transformation Program consulting  

 
Subscribe to Fresh Perspectives in Social Work for more episodes like this, and visit berrydunn.com to explore how we support sustainable health initiatives.