FCC Rural Health Care Program
Telecommunications and broadband support for eligible health care providers
Important: Eligibility Requirements
This is not a general nonprofit program. The FCC Rural Health Care Program is specifically for eligible health care providers operating in rural areas. Your organization must meet specific health care provider and rural location criteria.
Program Overview
The Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) Rural Health Care Program provides support so eligible health care providers can obtain telecommunications and broadband services at reduced rates. This program helps rural health care providers access the connectivity they need to deliver quality care, including telehealth services.
The program subsidizes the difference between urban and rural rates for telecommunications and broadband services, making advanced connectivity more affordable for eligible providers.
Who This Is For
This program is highly relevant for nonprofits that operate:
- Rural clinics and health centers
- Community health providers serving rural areas
- Telehealth programs requiring reliable broadband
- Eligible rural health care entities as defined by the FCC
Eligibility Checklist
To be eligible for the Rural Health Care Program, your organization must:
- Be a public or nonprofit health care provider
- Be located in a rural area (as defined by the FCC)
- Provide health care services to patients
- Meet specific health care provider type requirements (e.g., hospitals, clinics, health centers, mental health facilities)
- Have a valid health care provider number (HCPN) or be eligible to obtain one
Note: Eligibility requirements can be complex. Always verify your organization's eligibility directly with the FCC or through the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), which administers the program.
What You May Receive
Eligible health care providers may receive support for:
- Broadband Internet Services
High-speed internet connectivity for telehealth, electronic health records, and administrative functions
- Telecommunications Services
Voice and data services at reduced rates
- Network Infrastructure
Support for network connections and related services
The amount of support varies based on the difference between urban and rural rates, service type, and your organization's specific needs.
How to Apply
The application process is administered through the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). Here's a high-level overview:
- 1
Verify Eligibility
Confirm that your organization meets the health care provider and rural location requirements. Check the FCC's eligibility guidelines and rural area definitions.
- 2
Obtain Health Care Provider Number (HCPN)
If you don't already have one, apply for an HCPN through USAC. This number identifies your organization as an eligible health care provider.
- 3
Select Service Providers
Identify telecommunications or broadband service providers that participate in the Rural Health Care Program and can serve your location.
- 4
Submit Funding Request
Complete and submit your funding request through USAC's online portal during the application window. Include service details, provider information, and required documentation.
- 5
Review and Approval
USAC reviews your application for eligibility and compliance. If approved, funding is provided to your service provider, reducing your costs.
Documents You'll Need
Prepare the following documentation:
- Proof of nonprofit or public health care provider status
- Organization details (legal name, address, tax ID/EIN)
- Proof of rural location (address verification, rural area designation)
- Health care provider type documentation
- Service details (bandwidth requirements, service addresses, use cases)
- Service provider quotes or agreements
- Contact information for authorized representatives
Common Pitfalls
- Assuming all nonprofits qualify
This program is specifically for health care providers in rural areas, not all nonprofits.
- Missing application deadlines
The program has specific application windows. Missing deadlines means waiting until the next cycle.
- Incomplete documentation
Ensure all required documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays or denials.
- Not verifying rural status
Rural area definitions can be complex. Verify your location qualifies before applying.
FCC Rural Healthcare Program Support
AllSector Technology is an FCC Rural Healthcare Service Provider with a 498 SPIN ID and can assist eligible health care providers (HCPs) with program enrollment and management.
Through a partnership with a specialized grant writing and management firm, AllSector Technology helps eligible HCPs enroll in the FCC Rural Healthcare Program at no upfront cost. The partnership firm provides comprehensive enrollment assistance, including:
- Eligibility screening and assessment
- Documentation preparation and readiness review
- Application management and submission support
- Ongoing program compliance and management assistance
Fee Structure: The grant management firm only charges an agreed-upon management fee if your organization receives an award through the FCC Rural Healthcare Program. If your HCP does not receive an award, there is no charge for the enrollment assistance and application support provided.
Note: Center4 provides informational guidance only. For enrollment assistance and support services, eligible HCPs can connect with AllSector Technology and their grant management partner.
Official Resources
For the most current information, eligibility requirements, and application forms:
Informational Use Only: This information is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Program eligibility, requirements, and availability may change at any time. Always verify details directly with the FCC and USAC before applying.