KENTUCKY — Kentucky is set to receive $12,143,672 to support COVID-19 response efforts in rural areas, according to a release from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. 

The funding through the Small Rural Hospital Improvement Program (SHIP) will go to 47 small rural hospitals, which have fewer than 50 beds, in Kentucky for COVID-19 testing and mitigation, said the release.

“The Biden Administration recognizes the important role that small rural hospitals have in closing the equity gap and ensuring that rural Americans can protect themselves and their communities from COVID-19,” said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra. “Today’s funding will help small rural hospitals continue to serve their communities in this critical role by expanding their COVID-19 testing capacity and mitigation efforts.”

State Offices of Rural Health, which work with small rural hospitals, will receive the funding to distribute to eligible hospitals in the state. Hospitals will use the funds to "maintain or increase COVID-19 testing, expand access to testing for rural residents, and tailor mitigation efforts to reflect the needs of local communities," according to the release.

“Our state-based SHIP grantees are important partners in helping to support small rural hospitals,” said Health Resources and Services Administration Acting Administrator Diana Espinosa. “HRSA is committed to mitigating the spread of the virus in rural areas by supporting and empowering local providers to tailor their responses to COVID-19 to what works for their communities.”