Governor Patrick Morrisey announced on May 8 the launch of the new $29.5 million Provider Productivity Support Fund, aimed at reducing administrative burdens for healthcare providers and improving health outcomes in West Virginia. The initiative is part of over $58 million in funding opportunities available through the state’s Rural Health Transformation Program.
The announcement is significant as it targets operational challenges faced by healthcare professionals, especially in rural and underserved communities, with the goal of enhancing patient care and supporting a healthier workforce across West Virginia.
“Our healthcare providers are being asked to do more every year while navigating growing administrative demands that take time away from patient care,” said Governor Morrisey. “This initiative is about improving healthcare access, supporting the professionals who deliver care, and helping more West Virginians stay healthy and active in the workforce. We need providers focused on patient care, not buried in paperwork, so we can improve healthcare outcomes across the state.”
The Provider Productivity Support Fund will be implemented under the Smart Care Catalyst pillar of RHTP to back system-wide transformation efforts statewide. It seeks to streamline operations by focusing resources on infrastructure improvements, care coordination, and operational efficiency measures designed to reduce duplicative processes.
Funding will be distributed through two tracks: Type 1 for provider productivity and administrative efficiency improvements; Type 2 for shared-service models encouraging collaboration among multiple providers. Providers can apply directly to the state under both tracks with an aim toward consistent participation in broader transformation efforts.
“This fund is about recognizing the realities providers face and responding with practical, system‑level support,” said Secretary of Health Dr. Arvin Singh. “Reducing unnecessary burden and improving efficiency is essential not only for provider sustainability, but for protecting patient access to care, especially in rural areas.”
This rollout follows previous RHTP announcements including a $28.56 million funding opportunity and creation of a HealthTech Appalachia Investment Advisory Panel—all focused on strengthening West Virginia’s workforce by expanding access to quality health services.
