Model Continuums of Care Initiative (MCCI) to Advance Health Equity and End Health Disparities Among Women and Girls in Racial/Ethnic Minority and Other Underserved Communities (U34 Clinical Trials Required)

Background
The Model Continuums of Care Initiative (MCCI) is a funding opportunity issued by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) aimed at advancing health equity and addressing health disparities among women and girls in racial/ethnic minority and other underserved communities.

The initiative focuses on women and girls of reproductive age, particularly those at risk for multi-morbidity due to mental health disorders, substance use disorders, chronic stress, and other health conditions. The goal is to integrate various health services to improve overall well-being and access to quality healthcare.

Grant Details
The MCCI will apply dissemination and implementation science approaches to reduce the prevalence of multi-morbidity among racial/ethnic minority women and girls. It proposes a continuum of care that integrates preventive health services, primary care, behavioral health, integrative care, and specialty care.

Key tasks include:
1) Establishing public-private partnerships;
2) Identifying barriers to implementing evidence-based interventions;
3) Assessing local community needs;
4) Developing implementation research goals;
5) Addressing policy and resource needs;
6) Conducting pilot implementation projects.

Successful planning phase applicants may apply for further funding during the implementation phase.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include higher education institutions, nonprofits, for-profit organizations, local governments, state governments, tribal governments, and faith-based organizations. Special encouragement is given to institutions serving underrepresented populations such as Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic-serving institutions, and others. Applications must include a Plan for Enhancing Diverse Perspectives (PEDP).

Period of Performance
The planning phase will last between 2 to 3 years. Following successful completion of this phase, grantees may apply for up to 5 years of funding during the implementation phase.

Grant Value
The total funding available includes $1.8 million from NIAAA with up to three awards at $600K each. Other NIH components will determine their award amounts based on the number of meritorious applications received.

Place of Performance
The grant activities are expected to be performed in communities across the United States that are identified as high-risk for health disparities among racial/ethnic minority women and girls.