Virginia’s small businesses will have greater access to health care as a result of a new round of federal funds from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

The state received $912,658 under the new State Health Access Program (SHAP), an outgrowth of the HHS’s state planning grant program that operated from 2000 to 2007. That program enabled many states to develop innovative plans that increased health insurance coverage for their uninsured residents, according to the HHS.

Tim Kaine

Virginia officials said the federal award will increase each year of the five-year grant period, corresponding with proposed program expansions. The total amount Virginia could receive, according to Gov. Tim Kaine, is $15 million.

“In these tough economic times, it’s more important than ever that we find ways to expand access to quality, affordable health care for Virginians,” Kaine said in a statement. “By focusing on both health coverage and wellness education, this initiative will contribute toward the long-term changes needed to control costs for small businesses – and the broader healthcare system.”

The grant funds will be used for four main purposes, according to Kaine’s office.

The funds will go toward expanding the Riverside Share program in the eastern part of the state, for low-income employees who earn up to 400% of the federal poverty level. The funds will provide assistance in paying insurance premiums.

A new Employee Wellness Passport program will also be established, including onsite vaccinations for low-income workers, wellness education and screening. The funds will also help provide wellness benefits to the children of lower-income employees and develop a Virginia Center for Healthy Small Business as a public-private partnership to educate small businesses about the value of health coverage and employee wellness.