The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) has announced the availability of funding for two programs under the Office for the Advancement of Telehealth (OAT): the Telehealth Rapid Response Center (HRSA-25-044) and the Telehealth Research Center (HRSA-25-045). These programs aim to enhance the evidence base for telehealth services, focusing on expanding access and improving health outcomes for underserved populations. The initiative will support research and data analysis to inform policy decisions and program development related to telehealth.

The Telehealth Rapid Response Center (HRSA-25-044) is designed to conduct short-term, issue-specific research and rapid data analyses to assess the impact of telehealth policies and regulations. The goal is to provide timely insights to stakeholders, including policymakers and healthcare providers, enabling them to adapt to changing telehealth landscapes. This center will maintain a repository of national telehealth datasets, produce research briefs, and respond quickly to requests for data analysis from government agencies and other organizations.

The Telehealth Research Center (HRSA-25-045) will conduct longer-term, clinically informed health services research. Its work will expand the knowledge base regarding the effectiveness, cost, and delivery of telehealth services, particularly for rural and underserved populations. The center will also evaluate national telehealth investments, analyze policy implications, and disseminate research findings through peer-reviewed publications and stakeholder engagement.

For fiscal year 2025, HRSA anticipates awarding one cooperative agreement for each center, with an annual funding amount of $950,000 per award. The total period of performance is expected to last five years, from September 1, 2025, to August 31, 2030. Funding is contingent upon annual appropriations, and awards may be adjusted based on available funds.

Eligible applicants include public and private non-profit and for-profit entities in the United States, including higher education institutions, state and local governments, tribal organizations, independent school districts, and small businesses. Individuals are not eligible to apply. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement for these programs.

Applications are due by April 15, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time through Grants.gov. Applicants must first complete registration with SAM.gov and Grants.gov, which may take several weeks. An informational webinar will be announced on Grants.gov, providing guidance for potential applicants.

Applications will be evaluated based on criteria such as need, approach, impact, resources, and budget justification. The selection process will consider factors like geographic distribution and past performance in similar projects. Award notices are expected to be issued by August 1, 2025, with funded projects beginning September 1, 2025.

For inquiries, applicants can contact Stephanie Miller, Project Officer for the Office for the Advancement of Telehealth at smiller3@hrsa.gov or 301-443-3348, and Reginal Baker, Grants Management Specialist at rbaker@hrsa.gov or 301-945-3937.