The federal government is giving $2.5 million to medical centers and universities to educate "rural America" about Obamacare, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced last week.
Fifty-two hospitals and nonprofits will receive grants of $25,000 each from the HHS to "help people in their communities understand the benefits available to them" in the health insurance marketplace, which begins on Oct. 1.
Additionally, the University of Georgia will receive $1.25 million from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for Obamacare "outreach" targeted at rural Americans.
The latest funding is one of the many attempts by the government to promote the health care law, including a $12 million ad campaign targeted at red states, and a video competition encouraging people to enroll in the marketplace.
"The awards complement other federal efforts underway that help consumers make the best health care choices for themselves and their families," HHS said.
"Soon millions of Americans in rural communities will have new opportunities for quality, affordable health coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace," HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said. "Through these awards, trusted community providers will help people understand their coverage options, including whether they can get a discount on costs."
The University of Georgia will work with the Department of Agriculture (USDA) establish a "network of educators" in 12 states to help Americans "make informed decisions about participating in the Health Insurance Marketplace."
"Nearly one in five uninsured adults in the United States live in a rural area, and there is a great need to educate rural consumers about their insurance options under the Affordable Care Act," Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack said. "USDA and its partners in the Cooperative Extension Service are uniquely positioned to connect with local communities in rural America, providing valuable education and outreach to consumers about their healthcare options."
HHS grants will go to a variety of states, including, Arkansas, Kentucky, Montana, Missouri, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.