USDA Rural Development Utah State Director Randy Parker today announced that USDA is investing $62 million in a project for Uintah Basin Medical Center to improve their health care infrastructure and services in Uintah and Duchesne Counties.
“Living in a rural community shouldn’t exclude anyone from top notch health care,” Parker said. “With our partnership, a more convenient, wider network of care will be available to Uintah Basin residents who otherwise might have to travel to the Wasatch Front for services.”
Uintah Basin Medical Center is receiving $62,621,000 to expand the infrastructure and services offered in Duchesne and Uintah counties. Uintah Basin Healthcare will complete renovation and expansion projects at three of its healthcare facility sites. A new surgery center in Roosevelt is included with plans to increase the number of operating rooms and allow for the addition of future service lines.
Nationwide, the Department is investing in 60 projects through the Community Facilities direct loan program. These investments will expand access to health care for approximately 2 million people in 34 states.
A partnership between USDA and the National Rural Health Association (NRHA) has been finalized to identify issues causing financial strain on rural hospitals, which are an important part of the rural health care system. NRHA and the Department will work together to identify management and financial indicators that impact rural hospital operations. This technical assistance will help rural hospitals continue to operate and provide critical health care services to serve rural communities.
USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov/ut.