New federal funding opportunity for small rural providers announced

Posted on: 3/1/19

The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) published a new Notice of Funding Opportunity. The Small Health Care Provider Quality Improvement Grant Program will support up to 32 public or private nonprofit health care providers located in rural areas to improve patient care in their communities. HRSA expects to invest approximately $6.4 million for this program, which aims to improve the quality of rural health care through an evidence-based approach to primary care that has proven effective in rural areas.

Previously funded organizations under this program designed and carried out projects focused on coordinated care for patients, chronic disease management, integrated care delivery systems, and reduced admissions for emergency rooms and hospitals, among other issues for rural providers. Objectives for this program, which is competitive every three years, include improved health outcomes, better engagement of patients and their caregivers, and continuous improvement to chronic disease management. Grantees are also encouraged to implement quality improvement activities that measure value by outcomes, establish and maintain patient-centered medical homes, and integrate behavioral health into the primary care setting.

Full details of the program and requirements for applicants are available here. Applications will be accepted until April 22.