Applications Due: November 25, 2019 at 11:59 p.m. ET

This program is designed to support integrated rural health care networks that address mental health, substance use disorder, and value-based care. The program has five goals:

1. Improve access and quality of health care in rural areas through sustainable health care programs created as a result of network collaboration;
2. Prepare rural health networks for the transition to value-based payment and population health management;
3. Demonstrate improved health outcomes and community impact;
4. Promote the sustainability of rural health networks through the creation of diverse products and services;
5. Utilize and/or adapt an evidence-based or promising practice model(s) in the delivery of health care services.

Important note: As it stands, the FY 2020 President’s Budget doesn’t request funding for this program. Receiving this award is contingent on program funding. If your application is successful, you may not receive this award.

Helpful resources

• Learn how civil legal aid helps those affected by the opioid crisis in a co-branded NLADA and Justice in Government Project factsheet. On the last page are four examples of partnerships that are currently serving individuals affected by the opioid crisis.
• The NLADA recently presented at a national conference on how legal aid can help individuals affected by substance use disorders. We also heard from two states on what they’re doing to address the opioid crisis. Access that presentation here.

Grant information

Funding Title: Rural Health Network Development Program

Agency Name: Department of Health and Human Services – Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)

Funding Opportunity Number: HRSA-20-025

Funding Instrument Type: Grant

Express Language for Legal Aid: No, but the NOFO states: “Broad network membership that includes traditional and non-traditional health care partners and have extensive collaborative experience with one another is essential for the transition to value-based care and is fundamental to improving population health. … Diverse network partners may include behavioral health organizations, critical access hospitals, rural health centers, community and social service organizations, and tribal organizations.” (p. 1)

A legal aid organization with demonstrated ability to address mental health, substance use disorders, and/or value-added care could be a member of a rural health care network.

Target Population: Individuals living in rural areas

Expected Number of Awards: 46

Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement:  No

Estimated Total Program Funding: $13,800,000

Award Ceiling: $300,000

Award Floor: $0

How to Apply: Applicants are required to notify the State Office of Rural Health (SORH) of their intent to apply to this program. Find your state office here. HRS requires you to apply electronically through Grants.gov

Current Closing Date for Applications: by November 25, 2019 at 11:59 p.m. ET. HRSA recommends submitting applications at least three days before the deadline to allow for unforeseen circumstances.

Eligible Applicants: The applicant organization must be a public or private nonprofit entity located in a rural area or in a rural census tract of an urban county, and all services must be provided in a rural county or census tract.

Tribes and tribal organizations are eligible to apply for these funds. Eligible organizations include state, local, and tribal governments, institutions of higher education, other nonprofit organizations (including faith-based, community-based, and tribal organizations), and hospitals.

For more information

Link to Full Announcement: Link

Contact Information: Robyn Williams, Program Coordinator, Federal Office of Rural Health Policy, Telephone: (301) 443-0624, Email: RWilliams@hrsa.gov

There is also a webinar for technical assistance on Thursday, October 3 from 2:30-4 pm ET.

Call-In Number: 1- 888-831-6080

Participant Code: 9895049

Weblink: https://hrsa.connectsolutions.com/rhn-development/

Playback Number: 1-800-234-4804

Passcode: 111419

Categories: Department of Health and Human Services, Education Organizations, Government Organizations, Health, Native American Tribes or Tribal Organizations, Non-profit Organizations, Rural, Substance Use Disorder