Skip to main content

AL Rural Hospital Investment Program could save rural hospitals from closing

By WBRC.com  
   January 08, 2026

More help could be on the way for Alabama's rural hospitals. You can play a role in possibly keeping them open thanks to a law passed by state leaders. Starting this week, you or a company can donate directly to the Alabama Rural Hospital Investment Program. The law was passed by the legislature during the 2025 session and hopes to boost eligible hospitals financially. You can also receive a tax credit. Of the 50 eligible rural hospitals on the list, at least 14 are in the WBRC viewing area. According to the Alabama Hospital Association, 84% of the state’s rural hospitals have negative operating margins, meaning the money they are getting paid for providing care is substantially less than the cost of providing that care.

Full story


Get the latest on healthcare leadership in your inbox.