The American Association of Nurse Practitioners® (AANP) President, Dr. Valerie Fuller, participated in a White House event on January 16, 2026, highlighting the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP). This initiative aims to improve access to high-quality health care for rural communities across the United States. The event featured remarks from President Donald Trump, alongside various administration officials and congressional representatives.
Dr. Fuller, who is a practicing nurse practitioner and has roots in rural Maine, represented the interests of the approximately 461,000 licensed nurse practitioners (NPs) in the country. Her attendance underscored the critical challenges faced by rural areas in accessing affordable health care. “Growing up in a rural community, I know firsthand how difficult it can be for families to access health care,” she stated. “The Rural Health Transformation Program recognizes the importance of strengthening the health care workforce and supporting providers who deliver care in rural communities.”
Rural Health Transformation Program Funded at $50 Billion
The RHTP is a substantial $50 billion initiative designed to support state-led efforts aimed at improving health care access, strengthening the health care workforce, and addressing longstanding disparities in rural areas. A significant aspect of this program is its incentive structure, rewarding states that adopt or plan to implement full practice authority for nurse practitioners.
This authority allows NPs to deliver comprehensive, patient-centered care without the constraints often imposed by physician oversight. Studies have shown that empowering NPs to practice to the full extent of their education and training significantly improves health care access in underserved regions. “These policies have a proven track record of making a difference,” Dr. Fuller added, emphasizing the role of NPs in providing essential care in rural settings.
The AANP stands as the largest professional membership organization for NPs in the United States. As The Voice of the Nurse Practitioner®, the organization advocates for health policy that promotes excellence in practice, education, and research, ultimately supporting high-quality, patient-centered care across the nation.
Significance of Access to Health Care in Rural Areas
Access to health care is a pressing issue in many rural communities, where residents often face barriers such as distance to medical facilities and a shortage of health care providers. The RHTP aims to tackle these challenges, ensuring that essential services are available to all, regardless of their geographical location. By focusing on the needs of rural populations, the initiative aligns with broader efforts to enhance health equity across the United States.
As the event concluded, the messages from both Dr. Fuller and President Trump resonated with the audience, highlighting an urgent call to action for policymakers to prioritize rural health care. The AANP continues to be a pivotal force in advocating for the rights and capabilities of nurse practitioners, ensuring they can effectively meet the health care needs of their communities.
For more information on the AANP and its initiatives, visit aanp.org.
