The advisory council was created as a result of Gov. Landry’s executive order signed in April, establishing the Office of Rural Health Transformation and Sustainability within the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH), advancing efforts to strengthen health care access and outcomes for rural communities across the state.
The office will lead the implementation of Louisiana’s RHTP, supported by federal funding totaling approximately $208,374,448. The state’s award is among the highest in the nation, positioning Louisiana to secure more than $1 billion in total funding over the next five years.
The council will provide strategic guidance and stakeholder engagement related to program reporting requirements. It will also help ensure rural health transformation initiatives align with statewide priorities and local needs while supporting transparency, accountability, and coordination in the implementation of rural health initiatives and grant investments.
“The Rural Health Transformation Program Advisory Council reflects our commitment to every person and community we serve across Louisiana. Building a stronger, more sustainable rural health system means expanding access, improving care, and recognizing the critical role technology and innovation will play in transforming how health care is delivered in rural communities. This council brings together the perspectives and expertise we need to ensure the priorities of rural Louisiana remain at the center of that work.”
Bruce D. Greenstein, Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health
The Louisiana RHTP is a multi-year initiative led by the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) to improve access, quality, sustainability and innovation across rural healthcare systems statewide. The program aims to strengthen rural providers, improve health outcomes, reduce disparities, and create sustainable models of care for Louisiana’s rural communities.
“At ConnectLA, we know reliable broadband is more than infrastructure – it is a critical foundation for transforming healthcare in rural Louisiana. I look forward to working alongside Gov. Landry, the Louisiana Department of Health and my fellow advisory council members to strengthen healthcare access and build a healthier, more sustainable future for rural Louisiana. By connecting rural Louisianans to the providers and health resources they need, we can help ensure that location is not a limit when it comes to quality care.”
Veneeth Iyengar, Executive Director of ConnectLA
ConnectLA supports healthcare advancement in Louisiana through broadband infrastructure projects enabling telehealth visits, connecting families with specialists closer to home and giving providers the tools to deliver more cost-effective, high-quality care. Reliable broadband is critical for rural health transformation, helping communities overcome barriers to essential care and strengthening connections between providers and patients.
Nearly 1.1 million Louisianans live in rural parishes with limited access to healthcare and significant healthcare workforce shortages. The Office of Rural Health Transformation and Sustainability, with support of the RHTP Advisory Council, will coordinate statewide efforts to expand healthcare in these areas, strengthening rural health infrastructure.