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
RHC Connect System Maintenance: October 9, 2026
Oct 8, 2026
USAC will be performing system maintenance in RHC Connect on Friday, October 9, 2026, from 7:00 p.m. until...
Read MoreUSAC System Maintenance on October 10
Oct 5, 2026
USAC will perform system maintenance on Saturday, October 10, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET.
The deadline for applicants and service providers in the Healthcare Connect Fund (HCF) and the Telecommunications (Telecom)...
Read MoreBegin Draft FY2027 Funding Requests on October 1!
Oct 1, 2026
In preparation for Funding Year (FY) 2027, applicants can draft funding requests in RHC Connect beginning on...
Read More