AANP President Advocates for Rural Health Care Access at White House Event

Event summary

  • AANP President Dr. Valerie Fuller attended a White House event on January 16, 2026, focused on the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP).
  • The RHTP is a $50 billion initiative aimed at improving rural health care access and strengthening the health care workforce.
  • The program rewards states that adopt full practice authority for nurse practitioners (NPs).
  • Dr. Fuller, a practicing NP from rural Maine, emphasized the importance of supporting providers in rural communities.

The big picture

The White House event underscores the strategic importance of addressing rural health care disparities through policy and workforce initiatives. The RHTP's focus on empowering NPs aligns with broader industry trends toward expanding access to primary care in underserved areas. With 461,000 licensed NPs in the U.S., the program's success could significantly alter the landscape of rural health care delivery.

What we're watching

Policy Implementation
How the RHTP's $50 billion funding will be allocated and its impact on rural health care access.
State Adoption
The pace at which states adopt full practice authority for NPs and its effect on rural health care delivery.
Workforce Dynamics
Whether the RHTP can sustainably strengthen the health care workforce in rural communities.