Caring for the Whole Health of Georgia

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In 2024, CareSource launched the Rural Access Advancement Program (RAAP), investing $5 million to provide emergency funding for rural hospitals at risk of closure. In 2025, these funds are already making an impact across several rural Georgia communities. Hear from those who are helping to ensure access to care where it's needed most.

Maintaining access to care for rural Georgia communities is a critical priority for CareSource. Through the Rural Access Advancement Program, emergency funding is provided to hospitals and hospital-owned nursing facilities facing short-term cash flow challenges. To date, $5 million has been invested, with funds designed to be repaid and reinvested as facilities stabilize.

The expiration of COVID-19 relief funding and rising health care costs have placed many rural hospitals at risk. Since 2010, nine hospitals have closed in Georgia, making our state third in the state for hospital closures. When a rural hospital closes, communities lose access to emergency services, preventative care, and often one of their largest local employers, which can create an economic ripple effect.

With 26% of Georgia residents living outside urban areas, preserving rural hospitals is of critical importance. In collaboration with HomeTown Health, which represents more than 45 rural hospitals across the state, CareSource established advisory governance and funding administration for the program. Together, these efforts are helping to ensure vital health care facilities remain open and accessible.