Washington RHTP OTP Workforce Incentive Program (2026HCA9) — Round 2

Summary

The Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) aims to incentivize and stabilize workforce capacity among behavioral health agencies and licensed Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs) serving rural Washington communities. Incentives may include recruitment and retention bonuses, relocation support, childcare/dependent stipends, approved alternative incentives, and are tied to a five-year service commitment. Awards in this round range from $100,000 to $500,000 per applicant location, with all other original RFA requirements and evaluation criteria unchanged. Only entities already licensed as WA OTP providers delivering OUD services in accordance with state law are eligible. Round 1 (closed 8/26/2026) and Round 2 share identical application forms, budget caps, and review processes. Applications must include thorough responses to all required elements, completed forms, and mandatory attachments as described in the RFA and amendments.

Eligibility

Applicants must: (A) be licensed to do business in Washington state, or provide a written commitment to become licensed within thirty (30) calendar days of selection; (B) be a Behavioral Health Agency licensed by the Washington State Department of Health AND licensed as a Washington State Opioid Treatment Program currently providing Opioid Use Disorder services compliant with Chapter 18.205 RCW and 246-811 WAC; (C) employ at least one clinician (e.g., SUDP counselor, mental health professional, nurse, medical prescriber, or certified SUD peer) licensed in WA and meeting state requirements; (D) be willing to offer services to Medicare and Medicaid patients; AND (E) be an entity that includes providers working with Washington rural health clients and delivery of care services. Applicants must answer YES to all eligibility questions (see Exhibit A, Section 1: Eligibility Criteria Checklist) or will be deemed non-responsive.

Requirements Checklist