Congressman Biggs Urges CMS to Approve Arizona’s Rural Health Plan, Invites Administrator Oz to See Need Firsthand

Today, Congressman Andy Biggs (AZ-05) sent a letter to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Mehmet Oz urging the approval of Arizona's application for the federal government's Rural Health Transformation Program. Congressman Biggs also invited Dr. Oz to visit Arizona's rural communities to see firsthand the distance, limited resources, and unique challenges that rural residents face in accessing care.

The letter highlights Arizona's vast geography and the significant challenges rural communities face in accessing healthcare. More than 500,000 Arizonans live over 30 minutes from a hospital-among the highest rates in the nation-and many rely on limited Critical Access Hospitals rather than full-service facilities.

The Rural Health Transformation Program was created through President Trump's Big Beautiful Bill, which expanded resources to strengthen healthcare delivery and infrastructure in rural America. Arizona's application seeks to utilize these funds to expand access and develop innovative local care models for underserved areas.

Congressmen Eli Crane (AZ-02), Paul Gosar (AZ-09), and Juan Ciscomani (AZ-05) joined in signing the letter.

"Arizona's rural communities are the backbone of our state," said Congressman Biggs. "Many residents live more than thirty minutes from the nearest hospital, and for some, it can take close to an hour just to reach a critical care facility. That distance can determine whether or not a patient receives timely care.

"President Trump's Big Beautiful Bill made important investments to strengthen local communities and improve access to essential services, including healthcare. Arizona is uniquely positioned to lead the way in advancing these reforms and setting a standard for rural healthcare innovation.

"I'm inviting Dr. Oz to visit our great state and witness firsthand the challenges faced by Arizona's rural communities. Arizona is ready to lead in this effort, and I urge CMS to afford our state the opportunity to do so."

Congressman Eli Crane said,"Rural Arizona matters, and I'm proud to join my colleagues to advocate for these critical needs. We all passed the working families tax cut, which included a historic investment in rural hospitals."

"Access to quality healthcare remains one of the most pressing challenges facing rural America. The Working Families Tax Cut, passed by Congress and signed into law by President Trump, helps address the provider shortages, limited facilities, and resource gaps that rural communities in Arizona face. Arizona's healthcare providers continue to lead with innovative solutions-demonstrating why sustained federal partnership and investment are vital to ensuring quality care for all Arizonans,"stated Congressman Paul Gosar.

The letter may be read here.