Reduce connectivity costs. Expand what's possible for your organization.

    Nysernet's partnership with UAMS e-Link brings you purpose-built support in accessing USAC Rural Health Care (RHC) funding. Apply for reimbursement of up to 65 percent on eligible connectivity expenses.

    Save time, reduce administrative overhead, stay focused on your mission.

    Learn More at Our Virtual Info Session
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    Save Time

     We connect you with experts who manage the details, so your team doesn’t have to. 

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    Reduce Administrative Burden

    From forms to deadlines, UAMS e-Link helps streamline requirements and reduce internal workload.

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    Expand Eligibility Potential

     Consortium participation can open pathways to funding that cannot be accessed independently—such as funding for urban programs. 

    What is the Rural Health Care Program?

    The Rural Health Care Program (RHC), administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), helps eligible health care providers and institutions reduce the cost of broadband and network connectivity.

    For qualifying organizations, RHC provides:

    • Up to 65 percent reimbursement on eligible expenses
    • Support for broadband, infrastructure, and network services
    • Funding that enables greater access, performance, and reliability

    How It Works

    Applying for RHC funding through UAMS e-Link consortium connects you to a clear, supported path:

    1. Join the UAMS e-Link consortium - Nysernet introduces you and helps initiate the process
    2. Confirm eligibility - each site applies for RHC eligibility with consortium guidance
    3. Submit funding requests - e-Link works with you to prepare and submit USAC forms
    4. Receive reimbursement - approved funding covers up to 65 percent of eligible costs

    Throughout the process, Nysernet remains your partner and service provider.

    Nysernet Eligible Services

    RHC funding may apply to a range of Nysernet-supported services, including:

    • IAS and R&E network connectivity
    • Network Infrastructure, including fiber (lit and dark)
    • Network management services
    • Cybersecurity services
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    Nysernet members touring the data center

    Nysernet Eligible Members

    Eligible members include nonprofit urban, rural and tribal health care organizations such as: 

    • Postsecondary institutions offering health care instruction (including teaching hospitals and medical schools)
    • Community mental health centers
    • Community health centers 
    • Local health departments or agencies
    • Not-for-profit hospitals
    • Rural health clinics
    • Skilled nursing facilities
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    people walking across a campus

    Frequently Asked Questions

    We're here to address your concerns and help you on your path to more affordable services.

     The RHC program provides up to 65 percent reimbursement on eligible broadband connectivity expenses for qualified health care providers and certain educational institutions. 

    Eligible entities include nonprofit urban, rural, and tribal health care organizations such as:

    • Postsecondary institutions offering health care instruction (including teaching hospitals and medical schools)
    • Community mental health centers
    • Community health centers (including those serving migrant populations)
    • Local health departments or agencies
    • Not-for-profit hospitals
    • Rural health clinics
    • Skilled nursing facilities

    Through the e-Link consortium, funding can be applied for by any organization that meets the healthcare requirements, regardless of location. The consortium allows for greater participation parameters than when an institution applies on their own.

    Nysernet membership creates eligibility for the UAMs e-Link consortium. To participate, members should:

    1. Join the UAMS e-Link consortium
    2. Apply for and be approved under the RHC program

    You complete a Letter of Agency and submit it to the UAMS e-Link consortium. 

    If approved, funding is sent to Nysernet as your service provider. The reimbursement is then distributed to the institution.

    Yes. UAMS e-Link charges a fee equal to 10 percent of your cost savings, if approved for RHC funding. UAMS e-Link will bill your institution directly.

    Your Nysernet bill remains the same. Approved reimbursements will issued after Nysernet receives funding. You can choose if the reimbursement is applied to future services or if it should be paid directly to your organization.

    No. The consortium is specific to services eligible through Nysernet.

    No. Members may choose to apply for funding separate from the consortium. We recommend the consortium as the UAMS e-Link team helps you streamline the process. Note: organizations that are not eligible for funding independently may be eligible through the consortium.

    Learn How to Access RHC Funding

    Join us for a live walkthrough of the program, eligibility requirements and how Nysernet supports the process.

    Nysernet inFocus: RHC Funding Explained for Nysernet Members

    June 3, 2026 | Virtual Event

    Request a Consult

    Discuss eligibility and benefits with our membership team.

    We're here to help you determine if RHC funding is possible for your organization. Fill out this form and a member of our team will be in touch.

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