The Rural Pulse: Monthly Brief from the Washington State Office of Rural Health
Washington State Department of Health sent this bulletin at 02/18/2026 08:23 AM PST
Monthly Brief from the Washington State Office of Rural Health
Facing Challenges, Building Momentum
We work together to connect resources, champion equity, and strengthen health systems across rural Washington.
Rural Health Transformation Program
The Washington State Health Care Authority is our state's appointed lead on the Rural Health Transformation Program. For more information and updates, visit the Health Care Authority website.
“This new campus was made possible by the incredible support of our community, the dedication of our professionals, and leadership of our Board of Commissioners-and we’re excited to celebrate that together,” said Theresa Sullivan, Samaritan CEO. “Our Open House on February 28 invites everyone to tour the campus they helped make a reality and to share in this important moment for our region.”
Whether you’re new to the world of RHCs, or just need a refresher, we have the webinar for you: RHC Billing 101.
Tuesday, Feb 24, 11:00am - 12:15pm PT
Charles James with North American HMS will present on the basic billing requirements for Rural Health Clinics, including recent changes you should be aware of.
RNEP Expansion: Growing the Rural Nursing Workforce Webinar
Learn how you can collaborate with the Rural Nursing Education Program to strengthen the rural nursing workforce in our Community Partner Informational Webinar.
Washington has confirmed its first measles outbreak since 2023. There are currently 12 cases linked to the Washington outbreak, started in Snohomish County, and three additional cases not linked to the outbreak. Additional Counties affected include Clark, Kittitas, and Stevens. DOH urges people to review potential exposure locations and get the MMR vaccine, which is safe, highly effective, and the best protection against measles.
Washington Health Corps Provider Application Cycle Now Open
Do you know a healthcare provider who could benefit from student loan repayment assistance? The Washington Health Corpsoffering up to $75,000 in student relief in exchange for a three-year service obligation if working full time at an approved healthcare site.
Applications are due by March 6, 2026 at 5:00pm PT. Review the newest program reference guide.
For more information, email health@wsac.wa.gov or call 1-888-535-0747 opt. 5.
Loan Repayment Programs
The National Health Service Corps (NHSC) is accepting applications for three loan repayment programs. Are you a primary care, dental, or mental and behavioral health provider working at an NHSC-approved site? You could receive up to $100,000 to pay off your student loans.
The Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program application is also open, now through March 6, 2026 at 4:30pm PT.
If you are a nurse actively working in critical shortage facilities or teaching as nurse faculty at an accredited school of nursing, this program is an opportunity to reduce your nursing school debt. Pay off 60% of your nursing education debt with two years of Nurse Corps service, and you can reduce it by an additional 25% with a third year of service.
Developed by the University of Washington's Center for Health Workforce Studies with DOH’s Health Systems and Workforce Intelligence and Health Workforce and Primary Care Systems Development teams, the report can help leaders plan for patient care needs and workforce shortages.
