Block Island eligible for federal rural‑health transformation funds; lobbyists highlight $7.2M proposal

Lobbyists told the New Shoreham Town Council that the federal rural health transformation appropriation — a $50 billion program split into two $25 billion tranches — creates an opportunity for Block Island's community health services.

"New Shoreham is technically the only rural health designated community under the federal definition," Jeff Taylor said, noting the state application lists a Block Island Health Services Enhancement Proposal requesting about $7,200,000 to bolster emergency management technology, facility upgrades, home‑based care, residency placements and a PACE program.

Taylor said much of the proposed work centers on the Block Island Community Health Center and includes partnerships with Thundermist Health Center to supply primary‑care residents and dental residency support. He said the first $25 billion tranche required each state to submit a list of proposals and that most states will receive funding; how much Rhode Island will receive remains uncertain.

Council members requested follow‑up on exact grant details and timing: Jeff Taylor said the federal decision on the state's application was expected roughly four weeks after the meeting and that the town should be prepared to respond to implementation requests.

Council and staff asked for more specifics on matching funds and eligibility; the lobbyists said they had collaborated with the Department of Human Services and Department of Health on the application and would share more information when available.