The Health Resources and Service Administration has made available $12 million in grants for rural healthcare network organizations to help them become meaningful users of certified electronic health records.
The grants may support health IT activities, such as development of a strategic plan for electronic health records (EHRs), workforce analysis, purchase of health IT equipment and installation of broadband for connectivity, HRSA said in an April 27 announcement.
The agency will award up to 40 grants of $300,000 each over three years to start in September. It will be a one-time funding opportunity, HRSA said.
[See also: FCC, FDA pave way for wireless medical devices.]
The Rural Health IT Network Program is designed to help rural providers who work in formal networks, coalitions and partnerships to meet meaningful use requirements and expand access and quality of healthcare services.
The grants will help the rural health networks achieve economies of scale and cost efficiencies, enhance professional development and workforce recruitment and retention and network financial stability, the agency said.
