North Carolina's Rural Health Transformation Program is advancing toward implementation, with six regional NC ROOTS Hubs awarded to lead coordination of rural health transformation initiatives across 85 counties. Current focus areas include the integration of primary care, behavioral, and social health services, chronic disease prevention, maternal health, workforce development, provider preparation for value-based care, and digital health innovation. Program activities are organized by NC DHHS in collaboration with state agencies, community stakeholders, and a statewide advisory committee prioritizing transparency and multi-sector engagement. Current structured plan tracks 19 key initiatives and 14 strategic goals.
4Increase access to comprehensive, integrated medical, behavioral, maternal, and social care services across rural regions
5Expand access to integrated physical and behavioral health care for youth in rural areas via school-based health centers, prioritizing underserved areas
6Strengthen rural health care infrastructure, workforce development, and provider retention
7Promote financial sustainability and value-based transformation for rural providers
8Modernize rural health care operations and infrastructure through health IT and Health Information Exchange expansion
9Reduce rural health disparities and advance equity for historically marginalized and high-need populations
10Strengthen behavioral health crisis response and reduce preventable hospital and emergency department utilization, including MIH and CP expansions
Worth to Notice / Recent Updates (26)
Key signals are summarized here. Open the source for the supporting detail.
NC - 2026 - North Carolina RHTP Award Announcement
Auto-grouped context match (37%)
Rural population21.0%
2,196,327 rural residents
Current Progress
Implementing
North Carolina continues implementation of the Rural Health Transformation Program. As of September 2026, six NC ROOTS Hub Leads are operating, more than 420 stakeholders have been engaged statewide, and multiple regional RFAs remain active in workforce, maternal health, and nutrition interventions. Advisory Boards in multiple regions are guiding implementation, with local organizations submitting applications and awards anticipated soon. Regional needs assessments, action planning, and funded program launch activities are sustaining implementation across all Medicaid regions. State opportunities: 9 total (9 past/closed), $1.8M listed funding. Key opportunities: Expanding School Health Centers to Rural Areas Funding Opportunity; NC Mobile Integrated Health (MIH) and Community Paramedicine Program Grant; North Carolina Minority Diabetes Prevention Program – Region 8: RHT Grant FY 2026. Strategy alignment: supports care access, workforce, prevention priorities.
RHTP Strategy
North Carolina’s Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) advances rural health access, equity, and infrastructure through regionally governed NC ROOTS Hubs, coordinated partner networks, targeted grant funding, and tailored regional needs assessments. ROOTS Hub Leads implement evidence-based initiatives in chronic disease prevention, maternal health, behavioral health, school-based health center expansion, Food is Medicine, and digital health modernization, supported by multidisciplinary advisory boards. Quarterly meetings and formal regional boards ensure stakeholder engagement and program refinement across all Medicaid regions.
Model
Regionally governed NC ROOTS Hubs serve as backbone entities in each NC Medicaid region, connecting primary care, behavioral health, workforce development, digital health, and value-based reimbursement. Hub Leads manage governance, subgranting, and partner networks aligned to locally assessed needs and state priorities, with oversight from regional advisory boards and the statewide RHTP Advisory Committee.
Key Initiatives (19)
1Establish and fund NC ROOTS Hub Leads in each Medicaid region to coordinate rural health transformation and conduct regional needs assessments
2Build regional partner networks to enhance care coordination, workforce development, and infrastructure, tailored to local needs
3Expand NC Minority Diabetes Prevention Program and chronic disease management initiatives via targeted sub-awards and regional deployment
Timeline: Five-year phased implementation: ROOTS Hub contracts and regional needs assessments (2026–2027); statewide sequential rollout of program initiatives and digital health expansion (2026–2031); quarterly RHTP Advisory Committee meetings and formal regional advisory boards beginning in 2026 to guide ongoing program refinement.
11Support sustainable, transparent, regionally governed partnerships and accountability, including formal advisory boards
12Foster inclusive stakeholder and community engagement through quarterly RHTP Advisory Committee meetings and regional advisory boards
13Increase adoption and effective use of NCCARE360 for coordinated health and social care referrals
14Establish data-driven maternal, neonatal, and chronic disease care baselines and inform regional network development
Health Priority
Access to Comprehensive Rural Healthcare
Focus on connecting medical, behavioral health, and social services through locally governed NC ROOTS Hubs.
rural North Carolinaall 100 counties
Sep 26, 2026
Health Priority
Chronic Disease Management and Prevention
Expanding programs for diabetes, hypertension, cancer screening, maternal health, and nutrition support including food as medicine.
rural North Carolina
Sep 26, 2026
Health Priority
Behavioral Health and Substance Use Disorder Services
Growing services via new clinics, mobile crisis teams, school programs, and primary care integration.
rural North Carolina
Sep 26, 2026
Supporting
OTHER
2026
Budget: $213.0M
NC - 2026 - NCRHTP Holds First Advisory Committee Meeting
Establishes hub-and-spoke networks of cancer care across Iowa, connecting a central specialized cancer center with local clinics to expand access, provide screenings, telehealth, workforce recruitment, and equipment purchases.
$11.0M
Population Health
2026
YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina
Award to expand access to evidence-based diabetes prevention education and lifestyle-change support for minority populations across nine counties in southeastern North Carolina.
$195K
Population Health
2025-2026
39 local Emergency Medical Services agencies
Awarded $10 million to 39 EMS agencies to expand programs equipping paramedics to begin medication treatment for opioid use disorder, connect patients to care, conduct wellness checks, and reduce unnecessary ambulance trips.
$10.0M
EMS Development
Announcement Documents (20)
✉️
AnnouncementNEWSep 24, 2026TXT2026
This leadership update highlights RHTP-funded innovation in rural health, including Iowa's $11M Combat Cancer Health Hub Program, Hudson Headwaters' regional women's health network in New York, and a summary of recent federal awards to states for rural hospital upgrades, EMS training, and expanded specialty care. The $50 billion RHTP investment continues to drive improvements in access, technology, network development, and workforce capacity nationwide.
Event schedule:
- Rural Health Transformation RoundUp newsletter date - 09/24/2026
Rural Health Transformation RoundUp newsletter date - 09/24/2026
Core Initiatives
Expand access to specialized health services in rural areas
Build and strengthen regional health networks
Improve health technology and rural hospital infrastructure
Show all initiatives (5)
Expand access to specialized health services in rural areas
Build and strengthen regional health networks
Improve health technology and rural hospital infrastructure
Recruit and train healthcare workforce in rural regions
Increase preventive and behavioral healthcare
📄
AnnouncementSep 3, 2026PDFPast2026
🌐
AnnouncementSep 2, 2026HTMLPast2026
Award Announcement Documents (4)
📄
Award AnnouncementNEWSep 26, 2026PDF2025-2026Federal
North Carolina received a $213M federal award to kick off the Rural Health Transformation Program. In year one, major investments were made in regional networks, EMS opioid response, diabetes prevention, workforce training, rural health technology, and care coordination via health information exchange. Nearly 80% of funds were committed in the first months, with statewide and regional structures established for implementation.
Event schedule:
- Award Notification - 12/01/2025
- Program Funding Available - 04/01/2026
- Year One Reporting Due - 07/01/2026
This RFA seeks applications from qualified organizations in NC Medicaid Region 5 to expand food system infrastructure, nutrition education, and workforce for Food Is Medicine programs under the NC Rural Health Transformation Program. Targeted areas include underserved and rural counties with significant health disparities and high chronic disease burden. Grantees will champion NCCARE360 adoption for closed-loop referrals and must demonstrate capacity for rapid implementation and long-term sustainability. Key contacts: Region5NCRootsHub@TrilliumNC.org; Region5NCRootsHub@trilliumnc.org
Event schedule:
- RFA Issued - 07/30/2026
- Written Questions Deadline - 08/06/2026 - 5:00 PM EDT
- Application Submission Deadline - 08/31/2026 - 4:00 PM EDT
- Applications due - 2026-08-31 - 16:00 EDT
POPULATION_HEALTH · WORKFORCE · NETWORK_DEVELOPMENT · OTHER
Event Schedule
RFA Issued - 07/30/2026
Written Questions Deadline - 08/06/2026 - 5:00 PM EDT
This document describes the Digital Health initiative within North Carolina's Rural Health Transformation Program, including a future Rural Health Innovation Fund to modernize rural provider infrastructure through health IT investments, support for rural adoption of AI and digital health, expanded digital health literacy programming, increased rural provider participation in the statewide health information exchange, and integration of remote patient monitoring and chronic care management. Application opportunities for funding will begin in September 2026. The program will work with multiple partners to offer technical assistance, training, and infrastructure improvements for rural health providers and residents.
Event schedule:
- Rural Health Innovation Fund application process begins - September 2026 - Rural Health Transformation Program Grant Opportunities webpage
- Digital health literacy program support available - July 1, 2026 - Statewide
HEALTH_INFORMATION_TECHNOLOGY · QUALITY_IMPROVEMENT · POPULATION_HEALTH · WORKFORCE · OTHER
Event Schedule
Rural Health Innovation Fund application process begins - September 2026 - Rural Health Transformation Program Grant Opportunities webpage
Digital health literacy program support available - July 1, 2026 - Statewide
Core Initiatives
Modernize rural health care operations and infrastructure.
Increase participation of rural providers in health information exchange.
Improve rural residents' digital health literacy.
Show all initiatives (5)
Modernize rural health care operations and infrastructure.
Increase participation of rural providers in health information exchange.
Improve rural residents' digital health literacy.
Integrate remote patient monitoring and chronic care management.
Support adoption of AI and emerging digital technologies in rural settings.
The NC Department of Health and Human Services Strategic Plan for 2024-2026 outlines Medicaid expansion, behavioral health investments, and a commitment to whole-person health. The plan envisions cross-departmental coordination, operational excellence, and workforce development to address rural and urban health disparities. Strategic initiatives focus on child and family well-being, crisis services, data-driven improvement, and supporting partner capacity statewide.
Event schedule:
- Medicaid Expansion Law Signed - 03/27/2023 - North Carolina
Medicaid Expansion Law Signed - 03/27/2023 - North Carolina
Core Initiatives
Advance health by increasing opportunity and outcomes for people facing greater health and situational challenges
Promote child and family well-being
Support behavioral health and resilience
Show all initiatives (5)
Advance health by increasing opportunity and outcomes for people facing greater health and situational challenges
Promote child and family well-being
Support behavioral health and resilience
Build a strong and inclusive workforce
Achieve operational excellence
🌐
StrategyJun 24, 2026HTML2026
NCRHTP Initiative Six focuses on enhancing digital health and technology in rural areas, including partnerships to advance health information exchange and AI deployment. The aim is to boost digital literacy, enable remote patient monitoring, and improve chronic care management for rural residents.
HEALTH_INFORMATION_TECHNOLOGY · OTHER
Summary Documents (2)
📄
SummaryJun 11, 2026PDF2027-2031
The NCRHTP plans to invest $1 billion over five years to improve health outcomes and access for nearly 3 million rural residents in 85 of North Carolina's 100 counties. Six integrated initiatives target the creation of local care hubs, enhanced chronic disease management, behavioral health expansion, workforce development, value-based payment adoption, and health technology innovation.
This annual report template guides states in reporting progress and use of funds for the Rural Health Transformation Program. It standardizes milestones and evidence for each stage of initiative implementation, including planning, execution, and sustainability. States detail governance, policy actions, metric tracking, and funding disbursement, supporting oversight and continuous improvement.
Event schedule:
- Launch competitive application to identify ROOTS Hub Leads - 2026-02
- Contracting with Hub Leads completed - 2026-06
- Launch meeting with Duke Margolis Institute for Health Policy - 2026-06
- Completion of regional needs assessment process - 2026-08
- Finalization of Action Plans - 2026-09
- Number of NC ROOTS hubs established measurement date - 2026-06-24 - UTC
Launch competitive application to identify ROOTS Hub Leads - 2026-02
Contracting with Hub Leads completed - 2026-06
Launch meeting with Duke Margolis Institute for Health Policy - 2026-06
Show all schedule items (6)
Launch competitive application to identify ROOTS Hub Leads - 2026-02
Contracting with Hub Leads completed - 2026-06
Launch meeting with Duke Margolis Institute for Health Policy - 2026-06
Completion of regional needs assessment process - 2026-08
Finalization of Action Plans - 2026-09
Number of NC ROOTS hubs established measurement date - 2026-06-24 - UTC
Core Initiatives
Demonstrate accountability for use of RHT Program funds
Track and report initiative milestones and metric progress
Achieve program compliance with CMS NOFO and terms
Show all initiatives (5)
Demonstrate accountability for use of RHT Program funds
Track and report initiative milestones and metric progress
Achieve program compliance with CMS NOFO and terms
Sustain improvements beyond the program period
Build Rural Community Care Network "Hubs"
📄
ReportJul 30, 2026PDF2024
Reference Documents (14)
📄
ReferenceSep 19, 2026PDF
The document lists members of the NC ROOTS HUB Region 5 Advisory Board from diverse rural health, community, and tribal organizations. It highlights collaboration across workforce development, rural hospital leadership, behavioral health, food access, and tribal health leadership sectors. Key contacts: Angela Lee Callicutt; Delphia C. McCoy; Paola De Avila; Isley Cotton
WORKFORCE · POPULATION_HEALTH · OTHER
Contacts
Angela Lee Callicutt - Local Health Director - Montgomery County
Delphia C. McCoy - Food Access/Nutrition Leader - Annie Catherine Pridgen Community Development Foundation
Paola De Avila - Child Care/Early Intervention CEO - Lee County Schools
Show all contacts (21)
Angela Lee Callicutt - Local Health Director - Montgomery County
Delphia C. McCoy - Food Access/Nutrition Leader - Annie Catherine Pridgen Community Development Foundation
Paola De Avila - Child Care/Early Intervention CEO - Lee County Schools
Isley Cotton - Community-Based Organization Leader - Center for Family Well-Being
Anthony Hunt - County Commissioner, Trillium Governing Board Member - Hoke County
Daniel Owens - Faith-Based Organization Leader - Life Springs Restoration Center
Marie Britt - CFAC Chair, Medicaid Member - Southern Region, Trillium Governing Board
Ayabami (AJ) Johnson - Certified Peer Support Specialist, Community Health Worker - Life Springs Restoration Center
Leslie Smiley - Community-Based Organization Leader - Cape Fear HealthNet
Olivia Herndon - Associate Director, Workforce Development Leader - SEAHEC/Novant Health
Christopher Vann - FQHC Executive Leader - CommWell Health
Sara Clement - Nutrition Education Manager, Food Access/Nutrition Leader - The Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina
Dr. Melba McCallum - Executive Director, Faith-Based Organization Leader - Partners in Ministry
Celeste Hunt - Program Director, Tribal Government Leader - Lumbee Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Imari Anyali - Co-Founder & Executive Director, Community Health Worker - HarborWell
Shawn Howerton, M.D. - CEO, Rural Hospital CEO - Sampson Regional Medical Center
Core Initiatives
Enhance regional rural health workforce development
Strengthen community collaboration for population health
Advance tribal and faith-based health leadership engagement
🌐
ReferenceSep 3, 2026HTML2024-2029
🌐
ReferenceAug 21, 2026HTML
Region 5 includes 15 counties and is guided by an Advisory Board representing diverse communities including the Lumbee Tribal Government. The program posts initiatives, funding opportunities such as RFAs, community engagement sessions, and regional updates to support rural health transformation. Key contacts: Region5NCRootsHub@TrilliumNC.org
Event schedule:
- NC ROOTS Regional Kickoff Meetings Region 5 - June 1, 2026 - Region 5
Other Documents (2)
📄
OtherSep 19, 2026PDF
This document lists the advisory board members of NC ROOTS HUB Region 2, showing cross-sector leadership from universities, healthcare, community organizations, and tribal groups focused on workforce development, behavioral health, nutrition, and other rural health priorities.
WORKFORCE · POPULATION_HEALTH · OTHER
✉️
OtherJul 31, 2026TXT
This document highlights a job posting for the RHTP CSC Program Lead position for North Carolina.
NC - 2026 - NCRHTP Holds First Advisory Committee Meeting
Extracted
Sep 2, 2026 19:05
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Investing in North Carolina’s Caregiving Workforce: Recommendations to strengthen North Carolina’s nursing, direct care, and behavioral health workforce
2024 · PDF
Healthy Opportunities Network Leads and Regions Awarded
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North Carolina Olmstead Plan 2024 – 2025
2024-2025 · PDF
NCDHHS State Action Plan for Nutrition Security 2023-2024
2023-2024 · PDF
NC Department of Health & Human Services Strategic Housing Plan March 2023
2023-2028 · PDF
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2025 Appropriations Act Legislative Fiscal Note
2025-2026 · PDF
2025 Appropriations Act. Fiscal Note for Senate Bill 257 (Fourth Edition)
2025-2026 · PDF
Legislative Actuarial Note – Health Benefits: 2025 Appropriations Act
This meeting announcement outlines the agenda and objectives for the NC Rural Health Transformation Program Advisory Committee, focusing on program strategy, public engagement, and integration of the ROOTS Hub Initiative. The session includes opportunities for public comment both in-person and virtually, as well as involvement from a diverse set of stakeholders and partners. Key contacts: Maggie Woods; Dev Sangvai; Debra Farrington; Alice Pollard
Event schedule:
- Advisory Committee Meeting - 08/05/2026 - 2:30-4:30 PM ET - 1915 Health Services Way, Raleigh, NC 27607, Training Room A&B; Virtual: YouTube livestream
NETWORK_DEVELOPMENT · QUALITY_IMPROVEMENT · POPULATION_HEALTH · OTHER
Event Schedule
Advisory Committee Meeting - 08/05/2026 - 2:30-4:30 PM ET - 1915 Health Services Way, Raleigh, NC 27607, Training Room A&B; Virtual: YouTube livestream
Contacts
Maggie Woods - Director, NC Rural Health Transformation Program - Statewide
Dev Sangvai - NC Health and Human Services Secretary (Committee Chair) - Statewide
Debra Farrington - NCDHHS Deputy Secretary for Health (Committee Co-Chair) - Statewide
Show all contacts (4)
Maggie Woods - Director, NC Rural Health Transformation Program - Statewide
Dev Sangvai - NC Health and Human Services Secretary (Committee Chair) - Statewide
Debra Farrington - NCDHHS Deputy Secretary for Health (Committee Co-Chair) - Statewide
Alice Pollard - NCRHTP Deputy Director - Statewide
Core Initiatives
Strengthen rural hospital and Medicaid support
Engage the public and stakeholders in rural health planning
Establish and integrate ROOTS Hub Initiative into program
NCRHTP held its first Advisory Committee meeting with participation from over 40 community stakeholders. A $195,000 award was made to the YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina to support diabetes prevention programs across nine rural counties. The newsletter also spotlights ongoing federal funding, rural network development via ROOTS Hubs, launching of workforce resource directories, and efforts to modernize rural health technology. Key contacts: Impact Health; Trillium Health Resources; Vaya Health; UNC Health
Event schedule:
- First Advisory Committee Meeting - 08/05/2026 - ET - NCDHHS Headquarters, Raleigh
First Advisory Committee Meeting - 08/05/2026 - ET - NCDHHS Headquarters, Raleigh
Contacts
Impact Health - ROOTS Hub Lead - Region 1
Trillium Health Resources - ROOTS Hub Lead - Region 2 and 5
Vaya Health - ROOTS Hub Lead - Region 3
Show all contacts (5)
Impact Health - ROOTS Hub Lead - Region 1
Trillium Health Resources - ROOTS Hub Lead - Region 2 and 5
Vaya Health - ROOTS Hub Lead - Region 3
UNC Health - ROOTS Hub Lead - Region 4
Access East, Inc. - ROOTS Hub Lead - Region 6
Core Initiatives
Improve access to care in rural North Carolina
Strengthen collaboration among community organizations, health care providers, and partners
Advance digital health modernization and technology adoption
Show all initiatives (4)
Improve access to care in rural North Carolina
Strengthen collaboration among community organizations, health care providers, and partners
Advance digital health modernization and technology adoption
Expand and support the rural health workforce
North Carolina has been awarded $213 million by CMS for the Rural Health Transformation Program for 2026. The NC RHTP aims to improve health care in rural communities through strategies including the launch of NC ROOTS hubs, workforce investments, technological innovation, and transitions to value-based care. This funding will support more than 3 million rural residents and over 400 rural health facilities, leveraging a broad coalition of state, community, and academic partners.
Event schedule:
- NC RHTP Virtual Event - 01/16/2026 - Online
Expand the reach of statewide rural health initiatives supporting sustainability.
Increase access to high-quality, patient-centered, affordable care in rural communities.
Support innovations such as NC ROOTS hubs and value-based care models.
Show all initiatives (5)
Expand the reach of statewide rural health initiatives supporting sustainability.
Increase access to high-quality, patient-centered, affordable care in rural communities.
Support innovations such as NC ROOTS hubs and value-based care models.
Invest in workforce, technology, and prevention to address rural health disparities.
Strengthen cross-sector partnerships to address root causes of disease.
North Carolina was awarded over $213 million by CMS in December 2025 to launch its Rural Health Transformation Program, supporting over 3 million rural residents and more than 400 rural health facilities statewide. The state is deploying a comprehensive strategy with six main initiatives, including community-rooted care hubs, expanded behavioral and chronic disease services, workforce development, financial innovation, and technology upgrades. Implementation involves more than 420 engaged stakeholders with regular updates and participation opportunities.
Event schedule:
- CMS Federal Award Announced - 12/29/2025
- NC ROOTS Hub Contracts Finalized (expected) - June 2026
- Webinar: Progress Update and ROOTS Hub Introduction - June 24, 2026
NC ROOTS Hub Contracts Finalized (expected) - June 2026
Webinar: Progress Update and ROOTS Hub Introduction - June 24, 2026
Core Initiatives
Strengthen healthcare infrastructure in rural communities
Improve access to and quality of care for rural North Carolinians
Expand behavioral health and chronic disease management services
Show all initiatives (5)
Strengthen healthcare infrastructure in rural communities
Improve access to and quality of care for rural North Carolinians
Expand behavioral health and chronic disease management services
Support financial sustainability of rural health systems
Advance technological and data-sharing capabilities for rural providers
This RFA solicits applications to implement the 'I Gave Birth' postpartum program throughout Region 5 of North Carolina as part of the CMS-funded Rural Health Transformation Program. Targeted at rural, high-disparity communities, the program will train birthing facility teams, EMS, and community partners to improve postpartum outcomes for underserved mothers. The RFA places strong emphasis on engaging tribal, Black, and Hispanic/Latino communities, as well as on robust data collection, workforce training, and regional collaboration. Key contacts: Region5NCRootsHub@TrilliumNC.org; Region5NCRootsHub@trilliumnc.org
Event schedule:
- RFA Issued - 07/30/2026
- Written Questions Deadline - 08/06/2026 - 5:00 PM ET
- Written Responses to Questions Posted - 08/18/2026
- Application Submission Deadline - 08/31/2026 - 4:00 PM ET
- Applications due - 2026-08-31 - 16:00 EDT
Written Questions Deadline - 08/06/2026 - 5:00 PM ET
Written Responses to Questions Posted - 08/18/2026
Show all schedule items (5)
RFA Issued - 07/30/2026
Written Questions Deadline - 08/06/2026 - 5:00 PM ET
Written Responses to Questions Posted - 08/18/2026
Application Submission Deadline - 08/31/2026 - 4:00 PM ET
Applications due - 2026-08-31 - 16:00 EDT
Contacts
<Region5NCRootsHub@TrilliumNC.org> - Application Submission & General Inquiries - NC ROOTS Hub Region 5
<Region5NCRootsHub@trilliumnc.org> - NC ROOTS Hub Lead - Region 5
Core Initiatives
Reduce preventable postpartum complications in rural North Carolina.
Improve health outcomes for birthing/postpartum individuals in rural and underserved populations.
Strengthen rural health care infrastructure and provider capacity.
Show all initiatives (4)
Reduce preventable postpartum complications in rural North Carolina.
Improve health outcomes for birthing/postpartum individuals in rural and underserved populations.
Strengthen rural health care infrastructure and provider capacity.
Advance health equity by targeting disparities among racial, ethnic, and tribal populations.
This RFA solicits a lead agency to implement the CDC LOCATe tool across 15 diverse counties in southeastern North Carolina as part of NCRHTP Initiative 2, focusing on perinatal health improvement and hospital capacity assessment. Region 5 faces significant rural maternal health deserts, high chronic disease and behavioral health burdens, and severe provider shortages. The resulting assessment and stakeholder engagement will guide multi-year rural maternal health transformation efforts and future investment decisions in the region. Key contacts: Region5NCRootsHub@TrilliumNC.org; Region5NCRootsHub@trilliumnc.org
Event schedule:
- RFA Issued - 07/30/2026 - ET
- Written Questions Deadline - 08/06/2026 - 5:00 PM ET
- Response to Questions Issued - 08/17/2026 - ET
- Application Submission Deadline - 08/31/2026 - 4:00 PM ET
- Intent to Award Notification - September/October 2026 - ET
- Applications due - 2026-08-31 - 16:00 EDT
QUALITY_IMPROVEMENT · NETWORK_DEVELOPMENT · POPULATION_HEALTH · WORKFORCE · OTHER
Event Schedule
RFA Issued - 07/30/2026 - ET
Written Questions Deadline - 08/06/2026 - 5:00 PM ET
Response to Questions Issued - 08/17/2026 - ET
Show all schedule items (6)
RFA Issued - 07/30/2026 - ET
Written Questions Deadline - 08/06/2026 - 5:00 PM ET
Response to Questions Issued - 08/17/2026 - ET
Application Submission Deadline - 08/31/2026 - 4:00 PM ET
Intent to Award Notification - September/October 2026 - ET
Applications due - 2026-08-31 - 16:00 EDT
Contacts
<Region5NCRootsHub@TrilliumNC.org> - Application inquiries and submission - NC ROOTS Region 5
<Region5NCRootsHub@trilliumnc.org> - Region 5
Core Initiatives
Strengthen rural health infrastructure and hospital capacity
Improve maternal and perinatal health outcomes and reduce disparities
Establish a standardized baseline of maternal and neonatal care across Region 5 hospitals
Show all initiatives (4)
Strengthen rural health infrastructure and hospital capacity
Improve maternal and perinatal health outcomes and reduce disparities
Establish a standardized baseline of maternal and neonatal care across Region 5 hospitals
Inform rural hospital network development and future investments
The NC Rural Health Transformation Program's Digital Health initiative encompasses a suite of strategic programs aimed at modernizing rural health care through technology. Efforts include funding for telehealth and IT upgrades, supporting rural providers in adopting AI and digital tools, increasing participation in health information exchange networks, and promoting digital health literacy for rural communities. Projects will start rolling out in 2026 and aim for scalable, sustainable impact across North Carolina's rural regions.
Event schedule:
- RHIF Application Opens - September 2026 - Rural Health Transformation Program Grant Opportunities webpage
- Digital Health Literacy Support Launches - July 1, 2026
HEALTH_INFORMATION_TECHNOLOGY · QUALITY_IMPROVEMENT · POPULATION_HEALTH · WORKFORCE · OTHER
Event Schedule
RHIF Application Opens - September 2026 - Rural Health Transformation Program Grant Opportunities webpage
Digital Health Literacy Support Launches - July 1, 2026
Core Initiatives
Modernize rural health care operations and health IT infrastructure
Increase rural provider participation in NC HealthConnex health information exchange
Improve digital health literacy among rural residents
Show all initiatives (4)
Modernize rural health care operations and health IT infrastructure
Increase rural provider participation in NC HealthConnex health information exchange
Improve digital health literacy among rural residents
Integrate remote patient monitoring and chronic care management for high-risk populations
The program specifically targets EMS organizations serving rural or rural-adjacent counties with population density criteria to improve behavioral health and reduce emergency department utilization. The grant opportunity supports a contract period from July 1, 2026 to October 30, 2027, with applications due by May 20, 2026.
Event schedule:
- RFA Posted - April 24, 2026
- Applications Due - May 20, 2026 - 11:59 PM ET
- Award Notifications Issued - June 1, 2026
- Contract Period - July 1, 2026 - October 30, 2027
- Applicant Webinar - April 27, 2026 - 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM ET - webinar
Event Schedule
RFA Posted - April 24, 2026
Applications Due - May 20, 2026 - 11:59 PM ET
Award Notifications Issued - June 1, 2026
Show all schedule items (5)
RFA Posted - April 24, 2026
Applications Due - May 20, 2026 - 11:59 PM ET
Award Notifications Issued - June 1, 2026
Contract Period - July 1, 2026 - October 30, 2027
Applicant Webinar - April 27, 2026 - 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM ET - webinar
Core Initiatives
Strengthen behavioral health crisis response
Improve treatment access for individuals with substance use disorder
Reduce emergency department utilization associated with mental health crises and opioid overdoses
Core Initiatives
Improve health information sharing
Deploy advanced digital technologies including AI
Ensure digital literacy for rural residents
North Carolina is preparing an RHTP application leveraging its large and diverse rural population, strong safety net, and history of rural innovation. Strategic principles emphasize measurable impact, rigorous stakeholder engagement, sustainability, and maximizing federal funding potential. Priority areas include diabetes, behavioral health, maternal health, provider shortages, digital health, and sustainable regional provider networks.
Event schedule:
- Stakeholder inputs period closed - 10/10/2025
- NCDHHS submitted application - 11/03/2025
- CMS application deadline - 11/05/2025
- Target CMS approval of application - 12/31/2025
- More guidance to partners regarding fund application - Early 2026
More guidance to partners regarding fund application - Early 2026
Core Initiatives
Advance innovative solutions that foster independence, improve health, and promote well-being for all North Carolinians
Build rural capacity in primary care, chronic care, and behavioral health
Expand and strengthen collaborative, community-led, regionally anchored networks
Show all initiatives (5)
Advance innovative solutions that foster independence, improve health, and promote well-being for all North Carolinians
Build rural capacity in primary care, chronic care, and behavioral health
Expand and strengthen collaborative, community-led, regionally anchored networks
Ensure fiscal sustainability of rural health providers
Modernize rural health through technology, data-driven solutions, and integrated care team models
North Carolina expanded Medicaid in December 2023, enrolling nearly 500,000 people in the first nine months. The state secured $835 million investment for behavioral health and resilience, with strategic goals including whole-person health and closing gaps among historically marginalized groups. The report identifies prioritized disparities across chronic disease, mental health, communicable disease, and maternal health, emphasizing actionable strategies for stakeholders statewide. Key contacts: Dawn Verret; Beth Blaise; Cheryl Speight
Event schedule:
- Medicaid Expansion Launch - 12/01/2023 - ET - Statewide North Carolina
- Report Release - 09/05/2024 - ET - North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
- Healthy Opportunities Pilots launched - 2022-03 - America/New_York - North Carolina, 33 rural counties
- Healthy Opportunities Pilots services as of April 2024 - 2024-04 - America/New_York - North Carolina (33 counties)
- Medicaid Expansion effective date - 2023-12-01 - America/New_York - North Carolina
- Richmond County MAP Q1 milestone - 2023-03-31 - America/New_York - Richmond County, NC
Award: $835.0MPOPULATION_HEALTH · QUALITY_IMPROVEMENT · WORKFORCE · NETWORK_DEVELOPMENT · OTHER
Event Schedule
Medicaid Expansion Launch - 12/01/2023 - ET - Statewide North Carolina
Report Release - 09/05/2024 - ET - North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
Healthy Opportunities Pilots launched - 2022-03 - America/New_York - North Carolina, 33 rural counties
Show all schedule items (6)
Medicaid Expansion Launch - 12/01/2023 - ET - Statewide North Carolina
Report Release - 09/05/2024 - ET - North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
Healthy Opportunities Pilots launched - 2022-03 - America/New_York - North Carolina, 33 rural counties
Healthy Opportunities Pilots services as of April 2024 - 2024-04 - America/New_York - North Carolina (33 counties)
Medicaid Expansion effective date - 2023-12-01 - America/New_York - North Carolina
Richmond County MAP Q1 milestone - 2023-03-31 - America/New_York - Richmond County, NC
Contacts
Dawn Verret - Medicaid enrollee, beneficiary of Healthy Opportunities Pilot - Western North Carolina
Beth Blaise - Rural Health Operations Specialist - Richmond County
Cheryl Speight - Director, Richmond County Health Department - Richmond County
Core Initiatives
Reduce health disparities and promote whole-person health
Increase equitable access to health and behavioral health care
Strengthen and expand healthcare and caregiving workforce
Show all initiatives (20)
Reduce health disparities and promote whole-person health
Increase equitable access to health and behavioral health care
Strengthen and expand healthcare and caregiving workforce
Improve crisis and behavioral health systems
Engage communities in partner-driven health initiatives
Reduce health disparities among racial, ethnic, socio-economic, and disability populations in North Carolina.
Improve access to quality education, housing, and health care to promote healthier lives.
Expand broadband internet access and nutrition security statewide.
Support financial stability and community investment for historically marginalized populations.
Expand and evaluate evidence-based non-medical interventions to high-needs Medicaid enrollees.
Improve neighborhood and environmental conditions to support population health.
Promote health literacy and remove barriers to accessible and equitable health care.
Expand and track Medicaid waivers and services for people with disabilities.
Increase access to health care for underserved populations, including LGBTQ+ individuals and people with disabilities.
Reduce health care access and quality disparities by gender, sexual identity, race, ethnicity, and disability status.
Address and reduce chronic disease disparities through culturally and socially appropriate care and targeted interventions.
Strengthen partnerships and community-based approaches to address health inequities and chronic/communicable diseases.
Promote and support the retention and distribution of the health professional workforce, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Reduce health disparities in communicable diseases by race, ethnicity, region, gender, and sexual orientation
Control and prevent the spread of communicable diseases such as HIV, hepatitis, and sexually transmitted infections
Dr. Joe Roberts - Vice President and Chief Medical Officer, Tribal Community Leader - UNC Health Southeastern
Kristy N. Kent - Associate Vice President of County Engagement, Health Plan Executive - Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina
Cheryl J. Davis, MD - CEO, Behavioral Health CEO - Primary Health Choice
Briana Parkins - Community Impact Manager, Health Plan Executive - Alliance Health
NC ROOTS Hubs have been established as regional networks to coordinate, implement, and strengthen primary care, behavioral health, workforce development, value-based payment, and digital health strategies tailored to the unique needs of rural communities. Five organizations have been designated as ROOTS Hub Leads across North Carolina Medicaid regions. Funding opportunities for these regions are available, and detailed contact information has been provided. Key contacts: Tamara Smith t.smith@impacthealth.org; Region2NCRootsHub@trilliumnc.org; Region5NCRootsHub@trilliumnc.org; RHTP@vayahealth.com