The Department of Human Services posted frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the Rapid Response Stabilization: RHTP Payments. Please review the FAQs before submitting an eligibility certification and any attachments. The Department will begin accepting eligibility certifications at midnight on May 1.

For more information, contact NACDS’ Jermaine Smith at 703–837–4388.

Pennsylvania has launched its first Rural Health Transformation Plan (RHTP) funding opportunity, making $25 million available to strengthen access to rural health care and improve community well-being. The funding will support projects across six priority areas: Aging and Access, Behavioral Health, Emergency Medical Services and Transportation, Maternal Health, Technology and Infrastructure, and Workforce. Eligible rural hospitals, health care providers and facilities may apply for up to $1 million per entity to support supplies, equipment, renovations or infrastructure improvements. This initial round represents the first of several anticipated funding opportunities as the state continues to implement its broader rural health transformation strategy. Applications will be accepted from May 1 through June 1 or until the funding cap is reached—whichever comes first.

For more information, contact NACDS’ Jermaine Smith at 703–837–4388.

The Department of Human Services hosted a Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) webinar on March 31. The key message conveyed confirmed that RHTP programs will be developed on a regional basis by Rural Health Collaboratives (RCCs) and their advisory councils. 

Next Steps: 

Submit a nomination to be a part of the RHTP Rural Care Collaboratives (RCCs) or the Advisory Council by April 10 at 5:00 pm. 

Stay informed!  

• Be on the lookout for specific Year 1 funding opportunities by keeping up with ListServ communication and checking the our events page. 
• Become familiar with PA's Plan to understand how your project or expertise aligns with our initiatives and intended outcomes 
• Prepare for your funding submission by spending time on the CMS RHTP website to understand how the funds can and cannot be used for this cooperative agreement  

For more information, contact NACDS’ Jermaine Smith at 703–837–4388.

Pennsylvania has secured over $193 million in first-year funding to support implementation of the state’s Rural Health Transformation Plan. Stakeholders are encouraged to sign up for the RHTP ListServ to receive program updates and announcements. For questions regarding the program, inquiries can be submitted through the RHTP Inquiry Form.

For more information, contact NACDS’ Jermaine Smith at 703–837–4388.