$189M Investment Fuels Future of Rural Healthcare in South Dakota

South Dakota has been awarded more than $189 million through the Rural Health Transformation Project to strengthen rural healthcare systems and improve access to care across the state. As part of this effort, work is underway to launch the Digital Health Modernization and Technology Grant Program under Initiative 1: Technology and Data Connection for a Healthier South Dakota.

This program will support healthcare providers and organizations in modernizing digital health technology and equipment. Investments may include electronic health records, telehealth tools, network infrastructure, cybersecurity improvements, workforce technology training, and other solutions that improve patient safety, interoperability, and care coordination.

To help organizations begin preparing, the South Dakota Department of Health has posted an Applicant Preparation Guide that outlines the program concept, potential funding tiers, and steps applicants can take now to get ready for the Request for Applications (RFA).

We encourage healthcare providers, clinics, hospitals, tribal health facilities, behavioral health centers, long term care facilities, and other healthcare organizations serving South Dakota to review this information and begin planning potential projects.

View the Applicant Preparation Guide

Additional details, including application timelines and requirements, will be provided when the RFA is released.

Thank you for your continued partnership in strengthening rural healthcare across South Dakota.


This press release is supported by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of the Rural Health Transformation Project, a financial assistance award totaling $189,477,607.26 with 100% funded by CMS/HHS. The contents are those of the South Dakota DOH and DSS and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by CMS/HHS, or the U.S. Government.