Massachusetts is making a significant investment in the health and well-being of rural communities through the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) — and Councils on Aging serving rural areas should be paying attention.

Massachusetts received approximately $162 million for the first year of this five-year federal program, which runs from 2026 through 2030. The goal is to improve healthcare access, quality and outcomes while strengthening the systems that support rural residents.

Where Do Councils on Aging Fit In?

Older adults are specifically identified among the populations affected by rural health challenges. Massachusetts reports that approximately 160 communities are classified as rural, covering more than half of the Commonwealth's land area and including more than 700,000 residents.

For Councils on Aging, the program's priorities intersect with work already happening every day in senior centers and communities. Potential connections include:

• Healthy aging and prevention programs that address chronic disease, nutrition, physical activity and social connection.
• Transportation and access to care, particularly for older adults who must travel significant distances for medical services.
• Technology and connectivity, including digital literacy, telehealth access and helping older adults navigate online health resources.
• Community-based partnerships connecting COAs with healthcare providers, EMS, public health departments and other local organizations.
• Facility improvements and reuse that could help community spaces better support health and wellness services.
• Workforce and volunteer initiatives that strengthen the network of people supporting older residents.

These connections are particularly relevant to RHTP's seven initiatives, which include Population Health Advancement, Innovation in Rural Care Models, Healthy Rural Communities, EMS Service Integration, technology and connectivity, workforce development, and facility modernization.

Start Thinking About Partnerships Now

Not every funding opportunity under RHTP will necessarily be available directly to an individual Council on Aging. However, COAs can be important community partners in projects led by municipalities, healthcare organizations, public health agencies and other eligible organizations.

COAs bring something especially valuable to the table: established relationships with older residents and firsthand knowledge of the barriers they experience.

As funding and procurement opportunities emerge, rural COAs may want to begin conversations locally now. What health-related needs are you seeing among older adults? Where are the gaps in transportation, technology, prevention, nutrition, behavioral health or access to care? Could your COA be part of a larger regional or community partnership addressing those needs?

The state indicates that procurements began in summer 2026, with Year One funds subject to procurement expected to be contracted and implementation underway in fall 2026. Additional information and opportunities will continue to be announced.

Learn More & Stay Informed

COAs serving rural communities are encouraged to review the state's Rural Health Transformation Program information and follow upcoming funding, procurement and engagement opportunities.

Massachusetts Rural Health Transformation Program – Mass.gov

You can also explore the Massachusetts State Office of Rural Health, including rural health resources and an option to sign up for weekly rural health emails.

Massachusetts State Office of Rural Health

Now is a good time to start the conversation. Connect with municipal leaders and regional health partners, identify the needs of older adults in your community, and consider where your COA's programs, facilities, staff and community connections could contribute to improving rural health.