11/25/2025
For last week, Bay Rivers Telehealth Alliance - BRTA and the Ledwith Lewis Free Clinic spent the afternoon with Thomas J. Engels, Administrator, with the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), for an open, honest discussion about the day-to-day realities of rural healthcare, the heavy lift, the persistent obstacles, and the unwavering dedication delivered to communities. His visit also provided meaningful recognition on a day dedicated to the people who keep rural communities healthy.
Projects were outlined that keep the region moving forward and demonstrated the impact of HRSA funding across BRTA-led initiatives including expanding access to care, scaling telehealth programs, strengthening behavioral health and SUD services, supporting justice-involved individuals, increasing MAT access, building out our Mobile Integrated Healthcare model, and advancing youth prevention efforts.