(Nov. 3, 2023) – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment's Office of Primary Care and Rural Health is preparing for the second cycle for Rural Hospital Innovation Grant applicants. Many rural hospitals are struggling and need to find ways to adapt so they can be prepared for the health care needs of their community now, and into the future. Approximately $4 million in funding is available for use in transitional assistance related to changing a hospital's current health care delivery model to a model more appropriate for the community that the hospital serves.
Since being passed by the Kansas Legislature in 2021 and funded with $10 million from the American Rescue Plan Act, the State Office of Primary Care and Rural Health implemented the Rural Hospital Innovation Grant. The grant is available to rural hospitals in Kansas counties for projects with the purpose of strengthening and improving the health care system by innovating and transitioning their model of care in a way that increases access to health care services. The grant is intended to improve the long-term viability of Kansas rural hospitals, allowing them to continue providing the essential services needed to its residents to achieve optimal health.
Currently, more than $6 million dollars are set to be awarded. The second round of applications is being accepted now with awards planned for December 2023. More information and instructions to apply can be found online.
--Jennifer Findley