Advocacy & Policy

IHA brings voice, value and visibility to the legislative and regulatory arenas to ensure quality healthcare for Idahoans. As a trusted and credible resource on healthcare, IHA advocates for policies that improve access and quality. We strive to provide legislators and policymakers with the critical data and information they need to make informed decisions affecting their constituents.

Staff Contacts

Toni Lawson
Krissy Veseth
Brian Whitlock

Hospitals 101 Resource

This IHA resource is a great tool for those new to or just learning about Idaho hospitals. Community leaders, trustees, and others can discover the basics of hospital operations, how the reimbursement system works in Idaho, and what other factors influence healthcare delivery.

(click the image below to view PDF of Hospitals 101)

Rural Health Transformation Program

Idaho has been awarded $185.97 million in annual federal funding for five years to strengthen and modernize healthcare in rural communities. Funding for the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) was authorized by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act to provide relief to rural hospitals that will be impacted by Medicaid cuts.

Before any federal dollars can be distributed in Idaho, spending authority must be approved by the Idaho Legislature. We urge lawmakers and state agencies to distribute the funds to Idaho communities in the quickest, most efficient way possible. Too many of Idaho’s rural hospitals are currently struggling, and any available relief should be prioritized.

Once the Legislature acts and the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (IDHW) knows the timeline and amount of funding approved by the Legislature, they will move forward with details on RHTP implementation.

Hospitals and other stakeholders should be prepared to submit competitive grant proposals that align with the approved program goals for Idaho. IHA will continue to provide updates as they become available.

Idaho Rural Health Transformation Program Information and Updates from IDHW

Idaho RHTP Application

CMS Announcement of Awards

Notes & News

State of Idaho

Legislative Advisors:

Toni Lawson – Vice President, Advocacy and External Relations
Krissy Veseth, Director, Government Relations
Brian Whitlock – President/CEO