RFGP 6244: Catalyst Grants for the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP)

Background
The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is issuing this Request for Grant Proposals (RFGP) to identify and select Recipients for Catalyst Grant awards under the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP).

The RHTP aims to improve health care access, enhance chronic disease management and prevention, sustain the health care workforce, and expand the use of health technology and data in rural and remote communities in Oregon. The program is supported by up to $197.3 million from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) over five years, focusing on rural hospitals, health clinics, community health centers, and community-based organizations.

Additionally, there is a dedicated Tribal Initiative for the Nine Federally Recognized Tribes of Oregon.

Work Details
The Catalyst Grants will prioritize projects that stabilize and transform the health care system in rural areas, encourage collaboration among local entities, and support innovative projects that meet measurable outcomes.

Proposals can address one or more of four RHTP initiatives:
1) Healthy Communities & Prevention - focusing on integrated primary care and social health services;
2) Workforce Capacity & Resilience - aimed at expanding the healthcare workforce through training opportunities;
3) Technology & Data Modernization - enhancing technological solutions for better healthcare delivery;
4) Regional Partnerships - fostering collaborative regional solutions.

Projects must align with at least one of the eleven allowable use categories outlined in Appendix 2.

Period of Performance
The funding amount allocated for this Catalyst Award Grant opportunity is $160 million across two budget periods, with approximately $80 million available for each period. Budget Period 1 funding is contingent upon renewed funding from CMS but does not require additional proposals from Proposers.

Place of Performance
The contract will be performed within rural and remote communities in Oregon.

Bidder Requirements
Proposers must have a physical location in Oregon or provide direct health care services in Oregon. Eligible entities include rural health clinics, federally qualified health clinics, hospitals, behavioral health clinics, local public health authorities, nonprofit organizations, Federally Recognized Tribes, and academic partners. Ineligible entities include consultants and technology vendors. Proposals from organizations located in rural/remote areas will be prioritized.