US Agriculture secretary announces funds for rural health services in 34 states and Iowa
By APThursday, November 12, 2009
Funds announced for rural Iowa health services
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has announced that 111 projects in 35 states, including two in Iowa, will receive funds to expand access to health care services in rural areas.
The funds will also be used to increase educational opportunities.
According to Vilsack, the more than $34.9 million in grants will be provided through USDA Rural Development’s Distance Learning and Telemedicine Program.
According to the Agriculture Department, Mercy Foundation of Des Moines will receive $380,908. Clarke County Public Hospital will get $356,243.
In a statement Thursday, Vilsack said the Obama Administration is working to ensure rural citizens have access to a full range of educational opportunities and access to quality medical care. He said funds will deliver that by expanding telecommunications, educational resources and computer networks.
