DOH61365 SFY27 Rural Hospital Peer Group Funding Opportunity

Summary

the rural peer group (per OAC 5160-2-05, excluding those in non-statewide state directed payment programs per 42 CFR 438.6 or Am. Sub. HB 96). This funding supports rural hospital sustainability and participation in clinically integrated networks or rural health hubs. Allowable uses include IT system improvements, workforce and clinical initiatives, integration or formation of networks, quality improvement, behavioral health, specific infrastructure upgrades (excluding new construction), and other activities aligning with CMS RHTP priorities. Recipients must: (1) attend/review the 6/29/2026 pre-application session, (2) submit a letter of interest affirming commitment to RHTP goals and allowable uses, and (3) submit a categorized budget sheet by the deadlines. Funds are distributed on a reimbursement basis and must be fully expended by 6/30/2027. See Attachment A for hospital eligibility and Attachments B/C for specific use and admin cap details.

Eligibility

Hospitals must: (1) Be classified in the rural peer group per Ohio Administrative Code 5160-2-05, and (2) Not participate in any approved or pending non-statewide state directed payment program as set forth in 42 CFR 438.6 or Am. Sub. HB 96 (136th Ohio General Assembly). For eligible entities, see Attachment A in the solicitation.

Requirements Checklist

• Pre-application information session participation or review (06/29/2026, Microsoft TEAMS) is mandatory. 2) Submit a Letter of Interest by 3:00 PM on 07/07/2026. 3) Submit a Categorized Budget Sheet by 3:00 PM on 08/19/2026 (processed as received, but not before acceptance date). 4) All applicant inquiries must be emailed to procurement@odh.ohio.gov during the inquiry period (06/15/2026–06/26/2026, 3:00 PM deadline). 5) Recipients must commit to joining or forming a rural healthcare hub or clinically integrated network by September 30, 2027. 6) Quarterly reporting on progress and expenditures is required. Funds are dispersed on a reimbursement basis.