W.Va. Will Distribute $40 Million In Grants To Rural Hospitals

Gov. Jim Justice’s office announced the launch of the Rural Hospitals Grant Program in a press release Thursday, with a link to the application.

“Our rural hospitals are cornerstones of our communities in West Virginia,” Justice said in the release. “They support our families and neighbors in their toughest moments. Every West Virginian deserves access to quality healthcare, no matter where they live. This funding will help us make that a reality for everyone.”

The grant program has $40 million of appropriated funds to disburse. During the most recent special session of the legislature, lawmakers passed Senate Bill 2010, appropriating the surplus balance to the Governor’s Civil Contingent Fund to support rural hospitals.

Neither the application form, nor the press release make clear what constitutes a rural hospital, but the policies and procedures document for the grant program reads, “All rural hospitals in this state are eligible to apply.”

According to the application, grants must be used for capital improvement projects expected to be completed within 18 months of the date of the award.

Applications are due by November 15 and the governor’s office will disburse funds upon verification of eligibility.

Appalachia Health News is a project of West Virginia Public Broadcasting with support from Marshall Health.