VAFS applauds Governor Spanberger for fighting for millions to improve healthcare outcomes in rural Virginia

7 days ago
1 min read

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RICHMOND, VA— Virginians Advocating for Seniors (VAFS), an association committed to improving the quality of life, quality of care, and quality of outcomes at the Commonwealth’s nursing homes, issued the following statement in response to the release of $122 million to improve health outcomes for Virginians through the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP).

Among the fundamental goals of the program is growing Virginia’s healthcare workforce—an area of profound focus for both the Governor and VAFS.

“We’re excited to see such a meaningful financial commitment to the health needs of Virginians in rural areas across the state—especially efforts to grow the workforce in areas with significant staffing challenges. Addressing workforce shortages is a priority for both Gov. Spanberger and VAFS. We praise her thoughtful allocation of the money to address an issue of importance to so many Virginians.

“We also support the move away from a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to delivering healthcare that can often limit the success of programs with big ambitions.”

Among the program’s provisions aimed at driving workforce development are plans to support allied health career pathways for students, create new apprenticeships, and grow earn-to-learn programs. The RHTP will also expand credentialing opportunities in rural areas.

About Virginians Advocating for Seniors

Virginians Advocating for Seniors (VAFS) represents more than half of the Commonwealth’s nursing homes that care for older Virginians with complex medical, behavioral health, and long-term care needs. VAFS believes that policymakers should pair strong accountability with more flexibility and predictability, creating a system that allows facilities to invest in people, stabilize operations, and keep access available for those who need care close to home.