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.

During the 2026 Legislative Session, Idaho lawmakers provided spending authority to the Department of Health and Welfare for the RHTP funding, while also creating a Legislative Oversight Committee.  Solicitations for Requests for Proposals and Subgrants will be posted to the Department’s website once the Oversight Committee gives approval.  Review of applications and final decisions on any awards will also be subject to approval from the Oversight Committee.

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