On January 16, 2026, Dr. Valerie Fuller, President of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), participated in a significant White House event aimed at enhancing health care access in rural communities. The gathering highlighted the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) and included speeches from President Donald Trump, administration officials, and members of Congress.
Dr. Fuller, a practicing nurse practitioner with roots in rural Maine, represented the voices of approximately 461,000 nurse practitioners working across various health care settings, particularly in underserved areas. The event underscored the persistent challenges faced by rural populations in securing affordable and quality health care services.
Rural Health Challenges and Solutions
During her remarks, Dr. Fuller shared personal experiences, stating, “Growing up in a rural community, I know firsthand how difficult it can be for families to access health care.” She emphasized the critical role the RHTP plays in fortifying the health care workforce and bolstering support for providers who serve remote areas.
The RHTP is a substantial initiative with a budget of $50 billion, designed to empower states in improving health care access, enhancing workforce capabilities, and addressing the long-standing disparities in rural health care. The program notably rewards states that adopt or plan to adopt full practice authority for nurse practitioners, acknowledging their essential contributions in delivering comprehensive care.
Nurse practitioners are vital in rural settings, offering patient-centered care that spans various health needs. Evidence suggests that policies empowering NPs to operate to the full extent of their training significantly enhance access to quality health care for rural communities nationwide.
The Role of AANP
The AANP stands as the largest professional membership organization for licensed nurse practitioners in the United States. Acting as The Voice of the Nurse Practitioner, the organization advocates for health policies that promote excellence in practice, education, and research. AANP’s efforts aim to support high-quality, patient-centered care throughout the nation.
For additional information about the AANP and its initiatives, interested individuals can visit their official website at aanp.org.
