Health Care Providers To Meet In January Over A Program That Will Hopefully Assist Rural Care

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Contact: Shirley Sakaye, DOH, 907-269-4996, Shirley.Sakaye@alaska.gov   

Alaska Department of Health to Host Rural Health Transformation Convening 

January 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 (9:30–11:30 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.