DHS Releases Funding Update on Rural Health Transformation Plan

April 27, 2026

The Department of Human Services (DHS) released the first funding opportunity under the Rural Health Transformation Plan (RHTP) Friday in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.

There will be future funding opportunities. Awards in this round will NOT preclude you from getting funding under future opportunities. HAP is here to support you during this process. We also ask that you share submissions and/or funding awards with us to inform our advocacy on behalf of the hospital community.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Amount: The opportunity is limited to $1 million per organization with a total of $25 million available.
• Application window:  The window opens May 1, and it’s recommended you submit your application as early as possible (e.g., 12:01 a.m.) as DHS will fund opportunities on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Eligible funding:  This opportunity is limited to payment for supplies, equipment, renovations, or structural improvements.
  • This is not the opportunity for project initiatives like mobile vans or workforce training. Those opportunities will be forthcoming.
• Geographic limitations:  The entity must be located in Pennsylvania in one of the RHTP-eligible rural counties class 4–8 or located in a Health Resources and Services Administration (“HRSA”)-defined rural census tract of a county of the second-class A or third class.

Health Information Exchange participation is not a requirement for this funding opportunity. Entities may submit questions in writing via email no later than Wednesday, April 29 at noon. Responses will be posted on the department’s website.

To apply for the funds, you will need to complete the forms below via email.

• Rapid Response Stabilization Program Payment Certification
• RHTP Payment Budget Narrative Template
• RHTP Payment Budget Worksheet

For questions, contact Kate Slatt, vice president, policy & care delivery.