The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) is accepting applications for the fiscal year (FY) 2021 Rural Health Clinic Technical Assistance Program. The purpose of this program is to:
• Identify key policy, regulatory, programmatic and clinical issues facing Rural Health Clinics (RHCs);
• Identify possible solutions to challenges faced by RHCs; and
• Inform RHCs and other rural stakeholders about key RHC issues that affect or have the potential to affect care delivery
The health care delivery system is evolving, with an emphasis on finding new approaches to improve health outcomes, control costs, and improve population health. Financial incentives are moving from volume-based to value-based services, with a focus on quality of care in all settings and improving transitions of care as patients move between care settings. Within this environment, RHCs provide care to millions of rural residents, often serving as the sole health care provider in a community, and serving as the de facto safety net for rural residents. Many RHCs are small organizations with limited resources. These RHCs require support to effectively participate in the changing health care environment and to prepare for related policy and regulatory changes.
The Rural Health Clinic Technical Assistance Program provides technical assistance (TA) including tools, resources, and strategies that are easily accessible to geographically dispersed RHCs and could be used to inform rural health care providers and other federal, state, and local stakeholders. The TA may also include topics related to public health priorities such as ending the opioid epidemic and responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Multiple applications from an organization are not allowable.
Deadlines:
Eligible applicants include domestic public and private, for-profit and non-profit organizations, including tribes and tribal organizations, faith-based and communitybased organizations, institutions of higher education, state and local governments, and hospitals.
HRSA estimates approximately $100,000 to be available annually to fund one recipient. The actual amount available will not be determined until enactment of the final FY 2021 federal appropriation. You may apply for a ceiling amount of up to $100,000 total cost (includes both direct and indirect, facilities and administrative costs) per year. The FY 2021 President’s Budget does not request funding for this program. This program notice is subject to the appropriation of funds, and is a contingency action taken to ensure that, should funds become available for this purpose, HRSA can process applications and award funds appropriately. The period of performance is July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2026 (5 years). Funding beyond the first year is subject to the availability of appropriated funds for the Rural Health Clinic Technical Assistance Program in subsequent fiscal years, satisfactory recipient performance, and a decision that continued funding is in the best interest of the Federal Government. HRSA may reduce funding levels beyond the first year if you are unable to fully succeed in achieving the goals listed in application.
