The "Health Home for Individuals with Chronic Conditions" funding opportunity, issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), aims to support states in planning and implementing State Plan Amendments (SPAs) to establish Health Homes. The goal is to provide coordinated care for Medicaid-eligible individuals with chronic conditions, improving outcomes through an integrated system that addresses both clinical and non-clinical needs. The focus is on creating a person-centered model of care that ensures better services and value for Medicaid programs, emphasizing comprehensive and high-quality health home services.

The total available funding for this opportunity is $15,000,000, with each grant providing up to $500,000. A maximum of 35 awards are expected, and the performance period will be up to 36 months from the award date. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with deadlines on January 4, April 1, July 1, and October 1. The type of competition is new, and the funding type is a grant. States can use the funding to develop SPAs that support health home services for Medicaid beneficiaries with at least two chronic conditions, those with one chronic condition at risk of developing another, or individuals with a serious and persistent mental health condition.

Eligible applicants include a wide range of governmental bodies, including state, county, and city governments, as well as Native American tribal entities. Educational institutions, housing authorities, non-profit organizations, and for-profit entities are also eligible. A state applying for this grant must provide cost-sharing, matching an amount equivalent to the state percentage determined under section 1905(b) of the Social Security Act. The funding cannot be used to support activities that are already federally funded, and applicants must comply with specific application requirements, such as registration in SAM.gov and obtaining a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI).

The application package must include several key components, such as a project abstract, project narrative, budget narrative, and a business assessment of the applicant organization. A project narrative of up to 10 pages should outline the intended planning activities and how they align with program requirements, such as developing health home systems, engaging stakeholders, and providing support for SPA components. The budget narrative should clearly justify each expense for the 36-month project period, detailing both federal funding and any state matching contributions. Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov by the specified deadlines.

Review and selection will focus on the completeness of the application and the applicant's ability to meet program requirements, including the establishment of health home services that are consistent with statutory criteria. Evaluation criteria also include the applicant's organizational capacity, the feasibility of the proposed work plan, and the adequacy of budget and budget justifications. Awardees will need to comply with federal policies, including non-discrimination and accessibility requirements, and must submit regular progress and financial reports. The CMS may terminate awards for noncompliance with the terms of the agreement.

The program aims to foster a holistic care approach for individuals with chronic conditions, allowing states to leverage enhanced federal match assistance to develop and implement these health home services. It encourages states to innovate in health service delivery while ensuring accountability through stringent reporting and evaluation requirements.