State and National Legislative Update + Rural Health Transformation Fund Discussion

This 30 minute session provides a legislative and policy update outlining key developments shaping telehealth and digital health across Mississippi. The discussion highlights recent state legislation, federal telehealth policy updates, and the role of the Rural Health Transformation Fund in expanding access to care in rural communities. Special attention is given to how telemedicine, broadband expansion, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence are supporting more efficient care delivery, improving rural access to specialty services, and strengthening Mississippi’s rural healthcare infrastructure.

Key highlights include:

• Overview of 2026 Mississippi telehealth related legislation, including proposals related to Medicaid reimbursement parity and student mental health teletherapy access.

• Updates on the Rural Health Transformation Fund and how more than $200 million in federal investment is expected to strengthen rural healthcare systems.

• Expansion of telemedicine to improve access to primary care, behavioral health, and specialty consultations for rural patients.

• Integration of rural hospitals, clinics, and providers into coordinated regional care networks through telehealth.

• Technology modernization efforts including broadband expansion, telehealth platforms, and digital infrastructure improvements.

• Emerging use of artificial intelligence tools such as ambient AI clinical documentation and predictive analytics to improve efficiency and patient outcomes in rural healthcare.

Attendance is free for members. Non-member fees include a one-year individual membership in the association