Indiana RHTP: Growing Access to Hospital Post-Discharge Medications (Meds-to-Beds)

Summary

Grow Rural Health Initiative 6 ensures rural Indiana hospital patients receive prescribed medications at bedside prior to discharge, removing barriers associated with accessing outpatient pharmacy services. Medications are provided at outpatient prices and paired with bedside counseling. This noncompetitive, CMS/HHS-funded program aims to improve recovery outcomes, reduce hospital readmissions, and addresses transportation and access issues. IDOH, alongside a new statewide Meds-to-Beds steering committee, oversees implementation, resource development, and technical assistance for participating hospitals. Year 1 activities include the award of $20,000 planning grants to 43 identified hospitals, the formation of a steering committee in July 2026, required baseline data reporting by October 31, 2026, hospital-specific implementation plans by December 31, 2026, and provision of medications at discharge by July 31, 2027. Additional implementation funding may be available for hospitals prepared to provide bedside medications by the 2027 milestone.

Eligibility

Eligible entities are Indiana rural hospitals participating in the Rural Health Transformation Program as identified by IDOH. Noncompetitive distribution; selection/participation is coordinated administratively.

Requirements Checklist

• Participating hospitals must implement bedside provision of prescribed medications before discharge, track patient outcomes and readmissions, participate in program evaluation activities, and coordinate with IDOH and the program’s steering committee.

Submission Instructions

Administrative award; no open application process. Details are provided by IDOH to eligible hospitals.