Research on the Impact of and Methods for Implementing Regional Genomic Medicine eConsult Services (U01 Clinical Trials Optional)

Background
This Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) invites applications for sites to participate in the Genomic Medicine eConsult Research Network, hereafter referred to as the eConsult Network. The eConsult Network will consist of 2-3 sites working with NHGRI to conduct research on the impact of and methods for implementing regional clinician-to-clinician genomic medicine eConsult services.

Grant Details
The purpose of this grant is to conduct research on the impact of and methods for implementing regional clinician-to-clinician genomic medicine eConsult services. The program is intended to address three overarching research questions: What impact do genomic eConsult services have when they are implemented at the regional level? How can regional genomic eConsult services be implemented and sustained? Can tools be created and shared with others who are creating regional eConsult services? Each site will establish an independent regional eConsult service within the United States and/or its territories and test different approaches to implementation, potentially addressing different barriers and facilitators unique to their situations. Applicants will identify a population for which to provide eConsults, such as a geographic area or a noncontiguous selection of facilities. All sites must include at least two medically underserved populations/areas. The first year will be used to establish the eConsult services, establish the outreach and referral networks, and collaborate to develop and agree on metrics. A soft launch of a small number of eConsults could occur in the first year. A hard launch of the eConsult service will occur by the second year. Years 2-5 will see continued outreach, promotion, and education while the sites continuously evaluate and refine their procedures. In the final year, sites will disseminate and publicize their findings and tools.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include higher education institutions, nonprofits, for-profit organizations, local governments, state governments, federal governments, U.S. Territory or Possession, independent school districts, public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities, Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments), faith-based or community-based organizations, and regional organizations. Foreign organizations are not eligible to apply.

Period of Performance
The project period for this NOFO is 5 years (FY 2025-FY 2029).

Grant Value
NHGRI intends to commit $3.0M total costs in FY 2025, $3.2M in FY 2026, and $3.5M each year in FY 2027-2029 to fund 2 awards. Awards are limited to $870,000 direct costs in FY 2025, $940,000 in FY 2026, and $1,020,000 each year in FY 2027-2029.