Rural Health Systems · Partnerships · 5 min read
Who should rural health systems and hospitals partner with for RHTP success?
Because states apply and are accountable; sub-recipients (providers, plans, vendors) deliver, rural health systems and hospitals succeed through partnerships: Rural systems are frequently direct sub-recipients of state RHTP solicitations and often anchor regional partnerships. Strong proposals show a coordinated set of partners rather than a single organization acting alone.
Why partnerships win
RHTP rewards statewide, sustainable approaches. Rural systems are frequently direct sub-recipients of state RHTP solicitations and often anchor regional partnerships. A proposal that names committed partners and a clear division of labor is more credible than a solo bid.
Who to bring to the table
For rural health systems and hospitals, the most valuable partners typically include the state agency holding the award, anchor providers, and the technology or service partners that deliver and measure the work.
Aligning incentives
Funding new services without a sustainability plan risks creating capacity that collapses when the program sunsets in FY2030.
Frequently asked questions
- Can rural health systems and hospitals apply alone?
- Rarely effectively. RHTP favors coordinated, statewide approaches, so partnerships materially improve competitiveness.
Figures reflect the CMS Rural Health Transformation Program NOFO and the December 2025 award announcement. RHTP Tracker is an independent resource by Moodr Health and is not affiliated with CMS.