Alaska Health Hosts Rural Health Transformation Program Convening

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Published January 9th, 2026

Detected March 17th, 2026

Summary

The Alaska Department of Health is hosting a three-day convening to prepare stakeholders for the implementation of the state's Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP). The event aims to provide information, foster partnerships, and equip participants to pursue future RHTP funding.

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What changed

The Alaska Department of Health has announced a convening to officially launch the implementation phase of its Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP), a significant federal investment in rural healthcare. The three-day hybrid event, scheduled for January 14-16, 2026, will bring together healthcare providers, Tribal partners, community organizations, and technology vendors to build a shared understanding of the program, strengthen collaboration, and support community-informed use of federal funds. The convening will cover statewide overviews, program implementation details, and opportunities for connecting with vendors offering relevant solutions.

While this is an informational notice about a convening and not a rule, regulated entities and stakeholders involved in rural healthcare in Alaska should consider attending to gain crucial information about the RHTP. This includes understanding the state's vision, approved initiative areas, anticipated timelines, and the processes for future funding applications. Pre-registration is required for the virtual session, and the in-person event is at the Hilton Downtown Anchorage Hotel. The goal is to ensure coordinated and community-driven implementation of the RHTP.

What to do next

Review RHTP program details and event schedule
Pre-register for the virtual session if unable to attend in person
Consider attending the convening to understand RHTP implementation and funding opportunities

Source document (simplified)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Shirley Sakaye, DOH, 907-269-4996, Shirley.Sakaye@alaska.gov Alaska Department of Health to Host Rural Health Transformation ConveningJanuary 9, 2026, ANCHORAGE, AK — The Alaska Department of Health will host a three-day convening in January to help health care providers, Tribal partners, community organizations, health technology vendors, and other stakeholders prepare for implementation of the state’s Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP), a major federal investment in rural health care. The convening is designed to equip participants with the information, partnerships and tools needed to engage in statewide planning and pursue future RHTP funding. It marks the official launch of Alaska’s RHTP implementation following the federal award announcement. The hybrid event will bring together health care providers, Tribal Health Organizations, community organizations, local and regional leaders, and health technology vendors to build shared understanding of the program, strengthen collaboration, and support coordinated, community-informed use of federal funds. “This convening sets the foundation for a once-in-a-generation funding opportunity to improve access to care and strengthen and modernize health care systems across Alaska,” said Heidi Hedberg, Alaska Department of Health Commissioner. Event Schedule • Wednesday, Jan. 14 | Virtual Meeting (9:00-11:30 a.m. AKT) A statewide virtual overview of RHTP, including the state’s vision, approved initiative areas, anticipated timelines and available information on funding and application processes. This session is designed for broad participation, including those unable to travel. Pre-registration is required to attend the virtual session.

Thursday, Jan. 15 | In-Person Kickoff (8 a.m.–6 p.m.) A full-day, in-person convening at the Hilton Downtown Anchorage Hotel featuring updates from state leadership, discussion of program implementation and facilitated breakout sessions focused on advancing RHTP priorities across Alaska communities. • Friday, Jan. 16 | Vendor Showcase and Office Hours (8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.) A day dedicated to connecting Alaska organizations with vendors offering technology, data, workforce and service solutions. The day will include a vendor showcase, structured networking and optional one-on-one office hours with Department of Health staff. The broader goal of the event is to ensure Alaska’s RHTP implementation is coordinated, community-driven and grounded in real-world needs, while helping organizations understand how to engage before funding applications open. More information about the Rural Health Transformation Program is available through the Alaska Department of Health website. # # #