Delaware's Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) is currently in an implementation phase, advancing projects that expand healthcare access, reduce costs, and strengthen the rural healthcare workforce, particularly for residents in Sussex and Kent Counties. Key current initiatives include the establishment of the state’s first four-year medical school, launching integrated Hope Centers and rural community health hubs with mobile and telehealth services, and expanding school-based health centers. Major focus areas are overcoming provider shortages, chronic disease management, and building sustainable, integrated care models to address persistent healthcare barriers for the rural population. Current structured plan tracks 11 key initiatives and 6 strategic goals.
Delaware has opened its first set of RFPs under the Rural Health Transformation Program for competitive funding to support priority initiatives. With the federal award secured and budget restrictions lifted, the state has initiated procurement opportunities for local providers and subrecipients. Additional awards and funded projects are anticipated as application reviews progress. State opportunities: 6 total (6 past/closed), $100.2M listed funding. Key opportunities: Delaware Medical School Partnership – Rural Health Transformation Program; School-Based Health Center Expansion Initiative – Kent and Sussex Counties; Career Pathway Programs for Clinical Support Roles (HSS-26-075). Strategy alignment: supports workforce, care access priorities.
RHTP Strategy
Delaware’s RHTP aims to transform rural health systems in Sussex and Kent Counties by coordinating a suite of 15 integrated initiatives focused on workforce expansion, health hub deployment, regulatory reform, school-based access, and technology modernization. Execution leverages competitive contracts, robust data oversight, and federal funding to rapidly increase rural access, foster measurable health outcomes, and drive sustainable infrastructure in underserved communities.
Model
An integrated, multi-sector model combining 'Train Here, Stay Here' medical education, new Hope Centers for housing and behavioral health, school-based health center expansion, Rural Community Health Hubs using mobile and fixed sites, regulatory modernization (telehealth, scope of practice, CON), HIT and value-based payment readiness, and workforce incentives—unified under state agency and legislative leadership.
Key Initiatives
1Establish Delaware’s first four-year medical school and rural workforce training/data center
2Deploy 8+ mobile health units and establish brick-and-mortar Rural Community Health Hubs
3Expand school-based health centers and rural health pods in elementary and middle schools
4Launch two rural Hope Centers integrating health, behavioral health, housing, and SUD services
5Reform certificate of need, telehealth parity, and provider scope-of-practice laws
6Implement health IT and value-based payment readiness grants for rural providers
7Support development of rural Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs)
8Operationalize Food Is Medicine infrastructure for nutrition-based chronic disease interventions
9Recruit rural medical residents and offer clinical staff incentives
10Institute mandatory workforce data collection and real-time health IT reporting
11Coordinate sustainability plans for diversified revenue and long-term operational models
Timeline: Implementation milestones concentrate from 2026–2028, with major launches of health hubs, Hope Centers, regulatory reforms, and workforce deployment; continued funding and execution through October 2030.
Health Priority
Workforce Development: Focus on increasing the primary care physician pipeline and building rural medical workforce through the new medical school and capacity-building programs. (Regions: Delaware (statewide focus with rural emphasis), Kent County, Sussex County)
Jun 26, 2026
Health Priority
Access to Care: Mobile health units, telehealth, and school-based centers are priorities to overcome transportation and geographic barriers and to deliver services directly in rural communities. (Regions: Kent County, Sussex County)
Jun 26, 2026
Health Priority
Chronic Disease Prevention & Management: Initiatives like the Food Is Medicine program will support nutrition-based interventions and chronic disease management in at-risk populations. (Regions: Kent County, Sussex County)
Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (Office of the Secretary, Delaware Health Care Commission)
Due May 13, 2026
7 related documents
Related documents7
PrimaryPDF2027No amount extracted
DE - 2027 - Delaware REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL CAREER PATHWAY PROGRAMS FOR CLINICAL SUPPORT ROLES ISSUED BY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL SERVICES OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY DELAWARE HEALTH CARE COM
Official RFP (HSS-26-075)
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DE - 2026 - Delaware HSS-26-075 - CAREER PATHWAY PROGRAMS FOR CLINICAL SUPPORT ROLES ADDENDUM #1 – PUBLIC Q&A April 27, 2027 TO: ALL OFFERORS FROM: KAITLYN ARTHUR PUBLIC HEALTH ADMINISTRATOR I
Addendum #1 (Public Q&A)
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HSS26075-CPPCLINSUPP_AppC.xlsx
Vendor Forms (Appendix C)
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Delaware APPENDIX D Templates/Sample Agreements These Templates/Sample Agreements Will Be Used To Negotiate The Final Version Of The Contract Between Vendor And The State Of Delawa
Agreement Template (Appendix D)
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HSS26075-CPPCLINSUPP_AppE.xlsx
Project Cost Template (Appendix E)
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DE - 2026 - Delaware STATE OF DELAWARE OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY DELAWARE HEALTH CARE COMMISSION APPENDIX F DOMAIN AND PERMISSIBLE USES TEMPLATE Complete This Form And Submit It With Your Propos
Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH), Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS)
Due Jun 22, 2026
6 related documents
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DE - 2026 - Delaware REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES RHTP Support Services ISSUED BY The Division Of Public Health Delaware Health And Social Services CONTRACT NUMBER HSS 26-07
Develops platform for community clinics to participate in clinical research; EDGE funding supports integration with medical records, staff training, and compliance.
$275K
Health IT
2026
HouseCall VR (Wilmington)
Develops virtual reality patient education; funding accelerates AI-enabled teach-back, new modules for Delaware's priority conditions, and expansion of pilot program.
$175K
Health IT
2026
Dunya Analytics (Wilmington)
Provides a platform to assess financial risks and opportunities from biodiversity and nature loss; funds will support technology development and IP expansion.
$150K
Other
2026
NeuroSync (Hockessin)
Expanding access to innovative mental health treatments like TMS and neuromodulation for underserved populations; EDGE funds support program growth and service access.
$150K
Other
2026
3E’s Equestrian Education Program (Laurel)
Provides accessible equestrian education and equine-assisted learning opportunities for youth, individuals with disabilities, and community members; funds will support agricultural implements, equipment, and expansion of safe instructional space.
$100K
Other
2026
Huxley & Hiro Booksellers (Wilmington)
Independent bookstore and event space will use EDGE funds to renovate and equip their event space, enhancing capacity for literary and cultural programming.
$100K
Other
2026
Rooted Properties Group (Lewes)
Property redevelopment company; funding supports completion of motel renovation, safety and event infrastructure, and hospitality technology systems.
$85K
Other
2026
Little Town (Milford)
Indoor early learning and play center for children ages 0 to 7; funds will support buildout, play structures, furnishings, and operational infrastructure.
$75K
Other
2026
SOMA Skin & Sculpt (Middletown)
Aesthetics and wellness clinic; will use funds to expand to a new location and enhance health and longevity-focused services.
$40K
Other
2026
Terry Sammons
Funds will allow Terry Sammons, an individual from Wilmington, to acquire more supplies for beadwork, create teaching opportunities, and preserve the culture of beadwork focused on Lenape traditions.
$15K
Other
Announcement Documents (1)
🌐
AnnouncementMay 13, 2026HTML2026
Governor Meyer announced two major healthcare bills: one expanding comprehensive hospital charity care statewide, and another prohibiting for-profit acquisitions of non-profit acute care hospitals through July 2028. The administration is also promoting multi-payer value-based care with Rural Health Transformation Program funds to bend the cost curve. These measures are designed to make care more affordable, accessible, and protective for all Delawareans.
Event schedule:
- Announcement Date - May 12, 2026 - Dover
FINANCE · POPULATION_HEALTH · OTHER
Core Initiatives
Lower healthcare costs for Delawareans
Increase access to affordable healthcare
Strengthen patient protections
Show all initiatives (4)
Lower healthcare costs for Delawareans
Increase access to affordable healthcare
Strengthen patient protections
Advance multi-payer value-based care
Award Announcement Documents (3)
📄
Award AnnouncementJun 17, 2026PDF2025-2026
Delaware received a federal award of $157,394,963.86 through the Rural Health Transformation Program to advance major rural health improvements targeting underserved populations in Sussex and Kent Counties. Funds are temporarily restricted pending CMS approval of a revised budget; once lifted, Delaware will implement an ambitious transformation plan across policy, administration, and rural facility support. The cooperative agreement details reporting, compliance, and milestone requirements to sustain progress for up to five years. Key contacts: Ms. Katherine Hughes Katherine.Hughes@delaware.gov; Mr. Steven Blessing steven.blessing@delaware.gov; Ms. Jennifer Herndon jennifer.herndon1@cms.hhs.gov; Katherine Sapra katherine.sapra@cms.hhs.gov
Event schedule:
- Federal Award Start Date - 12/29/2025 - ET
- Budget Period 1 End Date - 10/30/2026 - ET
- NCC Application Due (Budget Period 2) - 08/30/2026 - ET - GrantSolutions
- Annual Progress Report #1 Due - 08/30/2026 - ET - GrantSolutions
- Budget Period 1 Start - 2025-12-29
- Budget Period 1 End - 2026-10-30
- Budget Periods 2-5 Start - 2026-10-31
- Budget Periods 2-5 End - 2030-10-30
Award: $157.4MPOPULATION_HEALTH · FINANCE · QUALITY_IMPROVEMENT · HEALTH_INFORMATION_TECHNOLOGY · OTHER
Event Schedule
Federal Award Start Date - 12/29/2025 - ET
Budget Period 1 End Date - 10/30/2026 - ET
NCC Application Due (Budget Period 2) - 08/30/2026 - ET - GrantSolutions
Show all schedule items (9)
Federal Award Start Date - 12/29/2025 - ET
Budget Period 1 End Date - 10/30/2026 - ET
NCC Application Due (Budget Period 2) - 08/30/2026 - ET - GrantSolutions
Annual Progress Report #1 Due - 08/30/2026 - ET - GrantSolutions
Katherine Sapra - <katherine.sapra@cms.hhs.gov> - Acting Deputy Director - CMS/HHS
Core Initiatives
Advance comprehensive rural health transformation across Delaware
Reduce healthcare access and outcome disparities for rural populations
Implement state policy actions and innovative care models
Show all initiatives (4)
Advance comprehensive rural health transformation across Delaware
Reduce healthcare access and outcome disparities for rural populations
Implement state policy actions and innovative care models
Monitor progress through regular reporting and CMS collaboration
📄
Award AnnouncementMay 31, 2026PDF2026Federal
📄
Award AnnouncementMay 25, 2026PDF2025
The document announces approximately $1.2 million awarded by HRSA to Delaware to enhance rural healthcare access, opioid response programs, and outreach. Four key sub-awards support behavioral health, overdose response, outreach services, and rural health office initiatives.
Award: $1.2MPOPULATION_HEALTH · QUALITY_IMPROVEMENT · OTHER
This document provides a standardized template to guide applicants in preparing a workplan for the Delaware Rural Health Transformation Program Support Services RFP. It outlines required elements such as objectives, monitoring approach, targets, and responsible parties to ensure structured responses. No award or budget information is included.
This House Joint Resolution directs a state-led study on creating a healthcare apprenticeship degree program with paid clinical placements to tackle rural workforce shortages. The initiative aims to leverage and align with the Rural Health Transformation Program award and future competitive DHSS subawards. The study's report and recommendations are due to state leadership by May 1, 2027.
Event schedule:
- Report Due Date - 05/01/2027 - Governor's Office, Delaware General Assembly
WORKFORCE
Event Schedule
Report Due Date - 05/01/2027 - Governor's Office, Delaware General Assembly
Core Initiatives
Address rural healthcare workforce shortages through development of apprenticeship pathways.
Align apprenticeship and credentialing programs with high school and postsecondary pathways.
Leverage federal Rural Health Transformation Program funds for healthcare workforce initiatives.
📄
StrategyJun 17, 2026PDF2025
Summary Documents (3)
📄
SummaryJun 17, 2026PDF2025-2026
The Delaware RHTP unites 15 integrated initiatives focused on access, workforce, technology modernization, and population health, directly serving 400,000 rural residents across Sussex and Kent Counties. Major investments include renovation of state-owned buildings for Hope Centers, workforce expansion, telehealth infrastructure, and community hub services. The total program cost is $786,970,081.95, with a 9.1% indirect rate to ensure statewide administrative and compliance oversight. Key contacts: Delaware Division of Libraries; Delaware Health Care Commission; Delaware Health Care Commission (DHCC) Program Manager
Event schedule:
- CMS Rural Health Transformation Summit - 03/18/2026 - ET - Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor, Baltimore, MD
- Initiative Period of Performance Start - 2025-12-29
- Initiative Period of Performance End - 2026-10-30
- Period of Performance Start - 2025-12-29 - America/New_York - Delaware
- Period of Performance End - 2026-10-30 - America/New_York - Delaware
- Rural Medical Residency Recruitment Program Period of Performance - 2025-12-29 - Eastern Time - Delaware
- Rural Medical Residency Recruitment Program End Date - 2026-10-30 - Eastern Time - Delaware
- Training Programs for Clinical Support Roles in Rural Areas Period of Performance - 2025-12-29 - Eastern Time - Delaware
This summary provides a high-level snapshot of the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) FY26 proposals from multiple states, documenting their priorities, innovative initiatives, and targeted investments. Each state focuses on a blend of workforce, access, quality improvement, and technology strategies tailored to rural health system needs. The total proposed allocations exceed $3 billion in federal investment.
House Bill 305 proposes a three-year diabetes wellness pilot program within the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services, funded by the Federal Rural Health Transformation Program. The pilot aims to improve diabetes management by shifting from reactive sick care to proactive well care, leveraging technology and incentives. Outcomes will be tracked via data analysis to determine the pilot's effectiveness and inform potential renewal or expansion.
Event schedule:
- Introduced in House - 03/05/2026
- Assigned to Senate Health & Social Services - 06/16/2026
POPULATION_HEALTH · HEALTH_INFORMATION_TECHNOLOGY
Event Schedule
Introduced in House - 03/05/2026
Assigned to Senate Health & Social Services - 06/16/2026
Core Initiatives
Improve health outcomes for Delawareans with diabetes
Change standard healthcare from reactive sick care to proactive well care
Reduce healthcare costs through improved chronic disease management
Key contacts: Rick Williamson Ricky.Williamson@delaware.gov; Katherine Hughes Katherine.Hughes@delaware.gov
Event schedule:
- Notice to State of Delaware under the contract - Rick Williamson, Management Analyst III, Ricky.Williamson@delaware.gov
- Monthly Usage Report due - monthly by 15th - Eastern Time - Submit electronically to Katherine.Hughes@delaware.gov
- Quarterly Subcontracting 2nd Tier Report due - quarterly by 15th after quarter end - Eastern Time - Submit electronically to osd@delaware.gov
Key contacts: Kaitlyn Arthur kaitlyn.arthur@delaware.gov
Event schedule:
- Initial Contract Term End Date - 2027-09-30 - America/New_York
- Maximum Possible Contract End Date (with extensions) - 2031-09-30 - America/New_York
Delaware, under Governor Matt Meyer and with support from the Delaware Health Care Commission and Department of Health and Social Services, has launched four initial RFPs aimed at expanding access, lowering costs, and building the health care workforce. Key initiatives include establishing Delaware's first four-year medical school, expanding school-based health centers, developing Food Is Medicine infrastructure, and launching mobile Rural Community Health Hubs with substantial new funding under the federal Rural Health Transformation Program. The program’s priorities include direct services in rural areas, lasting system capacity, and competitive awards for the proposals with greatest measurable impact.
Event schedule:
- Initial RFPs Announced - February 9, 2026 - Wilmington, DE
Event Schedule
Initial RFPs Announced - February 9, 2026 - Wilmington, DE
Core Initiatives
Expand access to health care services for rural residents
Lower health care costs statewide
Grow Delaware’s health care workforce, particularly in rural areas
Show all initiatives (4)
Expand access to health care services for rural residents
Lower health care costs statewide
Grow Delaware’s health care workforce, particularly in rural areas
Spreadsheets, data exports, and reference documents — available for download but excluded from the main activity feed.
020687s022lbl.pdf
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Raymond et al-Comparative Safety.pdf
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HSS26078-RHTPSS_AppC.xlsx
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DE - 2026 - Delaware HSS-26-078, RHTP SUPPORT SERVICES ADDENDUM #1: QUESTIONS & ANSWERS Delaware Health And Social Services DIVISION OF PUBLIC HEALTH PROCUREMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL HSS-26-07
Addendum #1 (Q&A)
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Agreement Template (Appendix D)
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DE - 2025 - Delaware STATE OF DELAWARE DIVISION OF PUBLIC HEALTH RHTP Guidance
Workplan Template (Appendix E)
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DE - 2025 - Delaware APPENDIX F PROJECT COST TEMPLATE F1. Project Cost Forms The Following Represents The Deliverables And Activities Per The Project Presented In Appendix B. In Effect, The Co
Project Cost Template (Appendix F)
DE - 2026 - Delaware State Of Delaware RURAL COMMUNITY HEALTH HUBS Request For Proposal HSS HSS-26-062 For Division Of Public Health February 6, 2026 - Deadline To Respond – April 17, 2026 At
RFP - Professional Services
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Sample Professional Services Agreement Template – State of Delaware
Appendix D
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Appendix E
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Appendix F
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Appendix C
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HSS-26-062 - Rural Community Health Hubs: Pre-bid Meeting Attendance March 20, 2026
Price/Budget Response
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DE - 2026 - Addendum #1 and Q&A for RFP HSS-26-062 Rural Community Health Hubs
Addendum 1
This Notice of Award grants $157 million in federal funding to Delaware for rural health transformation under the Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025. The initiative targets improved access and outcomes for rural Sussex and Kent Counties, affecting approximately 400,000 residents. Major focus is on contractual projects supporting the state's rural health system. Key contacts: Ms. Katherine Hughes Katherine.Hughes@delaware.gov; Mr. Steven Blessing steven.blessing@delaware.gov
Event schedule:
- Federal Award Date - 02/04/2026
- Budget Period Start - 12/29/2025
- Budget Period End - 10/30/2026
- Period of Performance End - 10/30/2030
Award: $157.4MOTHER
Contacts
Ms. Katherine Hughes - <Katherine.Hughes@delaware.gov> - Project Director or Principal Investigator - Delaware
Mr. Steven Blessing - <steven.blessing@delaware.gov> - Director - Delaware
Core Initiatives
Reduce healthcare access disparities in rural Delaware.
Improve health outcomes for rural residents in Sussex and Kent Counties.
Core Initiatives
Increase access to healthcare in rural communities
Strengthen health networks for rural providers
Improve quality of care at Critical Access Hospitals and small rural hospitals
Show all initiatives (4)
Increase access to healthcare in rural communities
Strengthen health networks for rural providers
Improve quality of care at Critical Access Hospitals and small rural hospitals
Support workforce training to enhance health service delivery
This document contains template and sample professional services agreement language for the Delaware Rural Health Transformation Program Support Services RFP. It outlines sample contract terms, payment, scope, intellectual property, and responsibilities, but does not select vendors or describe implementation progress.
OTHER
Delaware's RHTP will fund major new Hope Centers for rural homeless residents, mobile health units, and rural school-based health centers, directly targeting rural healthcare access, chronic disease, and workforce shortages. Sweeping regulatory reforms for telehealth, scope of practice, and certificate of need will remove longstanding barriers to rural provider growth. The plan is backed by strong legislative, hospital, and tribal support, positioning Delaware as a model for rural health system transformation. Key contacts: Molly Magarik; Dr. Rick Hong; Delaware State Housing Authority Contact
Event schedule:
- SBHC regulatory amendment draft deadline - 03/31/2028
- Telehealth, CON, Scope of Practice reform bill draft - 09/30/2026
- Telehealth parity bill sponsor deadline - 01/31/2027
- Legislation brought to vote - 06/30/2027
- Rural "Hope Center" Community Needs Assessment Completion - 2026-03-31 - Sussex and Kent Counties
- Rural "Hope Center" First Site Secured and Contract Executed - 2026-06-30 - Sussex and Kent Counties
- Rural "Hope Center" First Location Launch - 2026-09-30 - Sussex and Kent Counties
- Delaware Medical School Steering Committee Formation and Dean Appointment - 2026-12-31 - Delaware
Molly Magarik - Secretary, Delaware Department of Health and Social Services - Statewide
Dr. Rick Hong - Director, Delaware Division of Public Health - Statewide
Delaware State Housing Authority Contact - Hope Center Lead - Kent and Sussex Counties
Core Initiatives
Expand and integrate rural access points for preventive, behavioral, and primary care.
Modernize rural facility operations and care delivery models.
Strengthen healthcare workforce education, training, and retention in rural areas.
Show all initiatives (10)
Expand and integrate rural access points for preventive, behavioral, and primary care.
Modernize rural facility operations and care delivery models.
Strengthen healthcare workforce education, training, and retention in rural areas.
Reduce chronic disease burden and improve population health outcomes.
Make Rural America Healthy Again.
Make America Healthy Again
Innovative Care
Tech Innovation
Sustainable Access
Workforce Development
Delaware's RHTP tackles severe rural health disparities and workforce shortage by establishing new Hope Centers, deploying mobile health units, and expanding school-based health centers in Sussex and Kent Counties. The plan is backed by unified legislative and provider support, prioritizes technological innovation, value-based care, and robust data tracking, and includes concrete policy commitments to reform certificate of need, scope of practice, and telehealth reimbursement. Target outcomes include reductions in ED visits, expanded preventive care, increased rural provider access, and improved chronic disease management. Key contacts: Dr. Kara Odom Walker; Kate Brookins; William A. Bowser; Delaware DHSS
Event schedule:
- Executive Order for School Fitness Test - 12/31/2028
- Nutrition CME regulation amendments drafted - 03/31/2028
- Board approval for Nutrition CME - 09/30/2028
- Certificate of Need reform legislation brought to vote - 06/30/2027
- Scope of Practice legislation brought to vote - 06/30/2027
- Annual Licensure Compact Report publication - 12/31/2027
- Medical school enrollment begins (Fall) - 2028-09-01 - America/New_York - Delaware Medical School (to be determined)
- Establish governance structure, stakeholder engagement plan, pilot site selection and baseline assessment - 2026-09-30
Medical school enrollment begins (Fall) - 2028-09-01 - America/New_York - Delaware Medical School (to be determined)
Establish governance structure, stakeholder engagement plan, pilot site selection and baseline assessment - 2026-09-30
Deploy core infrastructure, engage 5 hospital pilot, and integrate with Medicaid - 2027-03-30
Connect 10 facilities, process 10,000 prior authorizations, and engage 25,000 patients - 2027-09-30
Connect Sussex and Kent County rural facilities, connect all commercial payers, and launch patient portal - 2028-03-31
Connect rural facilities and integrate all payers, with 95% provider adoption and self-sustained operations - 2029-12-31
Contacts
Dr. Kara Odom Walker - Secretary, DHSS - Delaware Statewide
Kate Brookins - Director, Division of Public Health - Sussex County
William A. Bowser - Director, Division of Social Services - Kent County
Show all contacts (9)
Dr. Kara Odom Walker - Secretary, DHSS - Delaware Statewide
Kate Brookins - Director, Division of Public Health - Sussex County
William A. Bowser - Director, Division of Social Services - Kent County
Delaware DHSS - Lead for Food is Medicine Infrastructure Initiative, Rural Provider/FQHC Value-Based Care Readiness, Catalyst Fund for Telehealth and Remote Monitoring - Kent County, Sussex County
Division of Public Health (DPH) - Key stakeholder partnership - Kent County, Sussex County
Delaware Health Information Network (DHIN) - Lead for Diabetes Wellness Pilot Program - Sussex County
DE Division of Libraries - Lead for Rural Libraries Health Access Initiative - Kent County, Sussex County
Delaware Health Care Commission - Medical School Rural Workforce Development Program, Delaware Medical School - Kent County, Sussex County
Governor’s Office - Oversight/partner in Delaware Medical School establishment - Kent County, Sussex County
Core Initiatives
Expand equitable access to care for rural Delawareans
Strengthen the rural health workforce pipeline
Modernize facility operations and payment models
Show all initiatives (22)
Expand equitable access to care for rural Delawareans
Strengthen the rural health workforce pipeline
Modernize facility operations and payment models
Improve population health and chronic disease outcomes
Foster technology adoption to support value-based care
Reduce preventable ED utilization
Eliminate regulatory barriers for new provider facilities
Advance rural health equity by addressing social determinants
Make America Healthy Again
Make Rural America Healthy Again
Innovative Care
Tech Innovation
Sustainable Access
Workforce Development
Establish governance structure
Stakeholder engagement plan
Pilot site selection and baseline assessment
Deploy core infrastructure
Engage hospital pilot and integrate with Medicaid
Connect facilities and expand prior authorizations and patient engagement
Connect rural facilities, all commercial payers, and launch patient portal
Integrate all payers with rural facilities and achieve provider adoption and self-sustained operations
Recruit and retain medical residents and clinical support staff to practice in Delaware's rural areas.
Support education, housing, and relocation to incentivize rural healthcare workforce expansion.
Expand training capacity and apprenticeship opportunities for non-physician practitioners and clinical support roles.
Empower rural residents to achieve healthy living goals through expanded population health solutions
Strengthen care integration for high-needs populations
Expand supply of care by growing rural workforce and spreading technologies that improve connection
Reduce 30-day readmissions for rural patients by 10%
Reduce delayed care (non-cost reasons) in rural areas by 10%
Achieve 75%+ of Maine rural hospitals with operating margins
Transform rural health workforce through apprenticeships, improved IT, and expansion of Area Health Education Centers
Support intensive case management for older adults with substance use disorders
Promote sustainable access and innovative care through expanded capacity for primary care, specialty practices, school-based health centers, and behavioral health
Deploy tech-enabled chronic disease management for rural residents
Expand access to essential healthcare services in rural Massachusetts
Reduce hypertension and diabetes ED visits by 10,000 per 100,000 people
Increase preventative care visits by 25 visits per 1,000 population
Strengthen rural health system foundation through community-driven integrated solutions in Michigan
Recruit and retain talent in rural communities in Minnesota
Create Coordinated Regional Integrated Systems (CRIS) to connect rural healthcare in Mississippi
Build statewide network of rural healthcare hubs and expand access to care in Missouri
Strengthen healthcare workforce, secure financial solvency, and embed prevention and community health in Montana
Make Rural America Healthy Again by focusing on workforce, technology, and right-sizing healthcare delivery in Nebraska
Make Rural Nevada Healthy Again by implementing value-based care models and workforce recruitment
Improve access to primary and preventative care, chronic disease management, and oral health in New Hampshire
Improve healthcare availability and stabilize rural providers in New Jersey
Transform healthcare access and quality through specialty care expansion and workforce development in New Mexico
Improve rural health outcomes through 'Make Rural America Healthy Again' and primary care initiatives in New York
Catalyze innovative care models, transform rural care experience, and create sustainable rural healthcare delivery system in North Carolina
Rebuild and retain rural health workforce
Prevent chronic disease, restore health, and reduce cost
Improve access to care through clinically integrated networks (CINs), community-based clinics, and mobile health services
Improve healthcare access, quality, and outcomes in rural South Carolina
Prioritize direct investment in provider capacity
Make Rural Texans Healthy Again
Making Rural Utahns Healthy
Build robust rural networks through enhanced primary care and long-term care support
The Delaware Rural Health Transformation strategy unites 15 initiatives to expand access, strengthen the workforce, modernize technology, and improve population health in rural Sussex and Kent Counties. Over $786 million is budgeted, with direct investments in clinical infrastructure, technology, and new models like Rural Hope Centers. The plan features robust performance tracking, stakeholder partnerships, and an emphasis on sustainable capacity building. Key contacts: Katherine Hughes; Chelsea Kammermeier; Christopher Masten; Lakeesha Johns
Event schedule:
- CMS Rural Health Transformation Summit - March 18, 2026 - Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor, Baltimore, MD
- Period of Performance for Community Health Hubs - 2025-12-29 to 2026-10-30 - Rural communities in Kent and Sussex Counties
- Period of Performance for Program Marketing - 2025-12-29 to 2026-10-30 - Kent and Sussex Counties
- Period of Performance for Technical Assistance & Training - 2025-12-29 to 2026-10-30 - Kent and Sussex Counties
- Period of Performance for External Evaluation & Reporting - 2025-12-29 to 2026-10-30 - Kent and Sussex Counties
- Period of Performance for EMR System Implementation & Integration - 2025-12-29 to 2026-10-30 - Kent and Sussex Counties
- Period of Performance for School-Based Health Center Vendor - Rural Sussex and Kent elementary and middle schools
- Period of Performance for Food is Medicine Infrastructure Initiative - 2025-12-29 to 2026-10-30 - Kent and Sussex Counties
Katherine Hughes - Project Director/Principal Investigator, Public Health Administrator I - Statewide
Chelsea Kammermeier - Program Administrator, Public Health Treatment Administrator - Statewide
Christopher Masten - Fiscal Analyst, Management Analyst III - Statewide
Show all contacts (5)
Katherine Hughes - Project Director/Principal Investigator, Public Health Administrator I - Statewide
Chelsea Kammermeier - Program Administrator, Public Health Treatment Administrator - Statewide
Christopher Masten - Fiscal Analyst, Management Analyst III - Statewide
Lakeesha Johns - Clinic Manager - Statewide
Susan Watson Holloway - Program Director, Public Health Administrator II - Statewide
Core Initiatives
Expand access to comprehensive rural healthcare and behavioral health services.
Develop a sustainable workforce pipeline through new medical and clinical education programs.
Leverage technology for telehealth, data integration, and care coordination.
Show all initiatives (13)
Expand access to comprehensive rural healthcare and behavioral health services.
Develop a sustainable workforce pipeline through new medical and clinical education programs.
Leverage technology for telehealth, data integration, and care coordination.
Reduce chronic disease and improve population health in rural Delaware.
Deploy mobile health units throughout rural areas to deliver preventive care, chronic disease management, and specialty services directly to underserved communities
Expand the network of school-based health centers in rural Sussex and Kent elementary and middle schools to provide comprehensive physical, behavioral, and preventive health services
Develop sustainable payment mechanisms, deploy integrated technology platforms, and train rural healthcare practitioners to deliver evidence-based nutrition interventions
Expand health services at nine rural libraries by adding staff and extending hours to provide telehealth support, health navigation, and benefits enrollment assistance
Support rural providers and FQHCs with cost-based, allowable infrastructure investments, including technology investments, expanded care teams, and strategic planning activities to transition to value-based payment models
Create a competitive fund to support health technology vendors in developing and deploying consumer-facing remote monitoring and digital health solutions for rural populations
Launch a three-year pilot providing continuous glucose monitors and intensive care management to 500 rural diabetes patients to improve health outcomes
Establish Delaware's first medical school with a Primary Care-Rural Health track to train physicians committed to serving rural communities
Provide comprehensive financial awards to medical students who commit to five years of rural practice in Delaware after graduation
WORKFORCE · QUALITY_IMPROVEMENT · POPULATION_HEALTH · OTHER
Event Schedule
Initial Contract Term End Date - 2027-09-30 - America/New_York
Maximum Possible Contract End Date (with extensions) - 2031-09-30 - America/New_York
Contacts
Kaitlyn Arthur - <kaitlyn.arthur@delaware.gov> - Contract Contact/Notice Recipient - Delaware
Core Initiatives
Develop and deliver new training programs, expand existing programs, and build career pathways for non-physician healthcare professionals serving rural and underserved communities in Delaware.
Create a sustainable pipeline of qualified healthcare professionals ready to serve Delaware’s rural areas and other underserved populations.
Address critical service gaps in rural communities through targeted training programs.
This Q&A Addendum provides clarifications for the RHTP Support Services RFP, including guidance on proposal page limits, budgeting, partnership expectations, scope of monitoring and evaluation, and program coordination. The document emphasizes vendor flexibility in methodologies and technology platforms (with primary use of AchieveIt), clarifies no predefined budget or funding envelope, and stresses the importance of clearly justified, reasonable proposals aligned with scope and deliverables. Vendors may propose for either or both Coordination and Monitoring & Evaluation components, and awards may be made to one or multiple vendors. Key contacts: Rick Williamson Ricky.Williamson@Delaware.gov
Event schedule:
- Reporting Cadence
- Contract Period from CMS
- Optional contract extensions
- Work Plan Template Submission Deadline - Eastern - Bonfire online system
- Estimated contract start date - 2026-09-15
Work Plan Template Submission Deadline - Eastern - Bonfire online system
Estimated contract start date - 2026-09-15
Contacts
Rick Williamson - <Ricky.Williamson@Delaware.gov> - Management Analyst III, Division of Public Health - Delaware (statewide)
Core Initiatives
Support program-wide coordination and oversight for rural health initiatives
Enhance monitoring, evaluation, and reporting for RHTP and associated subrecipients
Strengthen fiscal, operational, and compliance management across RHTP initiatives
Show all initiatives (12)
Support program-wide coordination and oversight for rural health initiatives
Enhance monitoring, evaluation, and reporting for RHTP and associated subrecipients
Strengthen fiscal, operational, and compliance management across RHTP initiatives
Support statewide coordination, program management, reporting, stakeholder engagement, and implementation activities associated with the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) award.
Support CMS-funded RHTP initiatives through coordination, monitoring, evaluation, reporting, and related grant management support services.
Enable program-wide monitoring, evaluation, reporting, performance tracking, implementation support, and outcome measurement across all RHTP initiatives.
Support program coordination, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting activities for the RHTP award across up to 15 initiatives.
Develop, refine, and standardize KPIs, metrics, and reporting requirements in collaboration with DPH and stakeholders.
Facilitate data collection, validation, quality assurance, and compliance with applicable federal, State, and program requirements.
Ensure transparent and accessible program reporting through dashboard support and public-facing AchieveIt integration.
Provide scalable, flexible support for evolving RHTP initiative and subrecipient needs throughout the contract period.
Support implementation and evaluation of the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) through coordination, monitoring, tracking, reporting, and grant management activities across multiple initiatives.
HSS26078-RHTPSS_AppC.xlsx
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HSS26075-CPPCLINSUPP_pba.xlsx
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HSS26075-CPPCLINSUPP_AppE.xlsx
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HSS26075-CPPCLINSUPP_AppC.xlsx
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Delaware APPENDIX D Templates/Sample Agreements These Templates/Sample Agreements Will Be Used To Negotiate The Final Version Of The Contract Between Vendor And The State Of Delawa
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