The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), through the Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services, is offering funding to state governments for planning the implementation of the Health Home State Plan Amendments (SPAs) as outlined in section 1945 of the Social Security Act. This Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is titled “Health Homes for Individuals with Chronic Conditions” and aims to support states in designing integrated care programs for Medicaid-eligible individuals with chronic conditions. The overarching goal is to encourage whole-person care that addresses both clinical and non-clinical needs through better coordination and integration of services.

This initiative is authorized under Section 2703 of the Affordable Care Act and section 1945 of the Social Security Act. Since 2011, 27 states and the District of Columbia have implemented similar programs targeting populations with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, substance use disorders, and mental health conditions. The grant is intended to fund planning activities necessary for developing a new SPA targeting a new population. Amendments to existing SPAs do not qualify for this funding.

The funding supports various planning activities including hiring personnel or contractors, stakeholder outreach, training and consultation, infrastructure development, and travel. Each award will be up to $500,000 and is expected to support a project period of up to 36 months. The total available funding is $15,000, with approximately 35 awards anticipated. States receiving funding are required to contribute a matching amount based on their Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) rate.

Eligible applicants include a broad range of entities such as state, county, and city governments; special district governments; tribal organizations; public and private higher education institutions; housing authorities; and nonprofit and for-profit organizations. However, applicants must not be currently receiving other federal funds for the same planning activities proposed. Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov by one of the quarterly deadlines: January 4, April 1, July 1, or October 1. Applications must include standard federal forms, a project abstract, a narrative, a budget narrative, and a business assessment of the organization.

The application will be reviewed on the clarity and feasibility of the project narrative, organizational capability, evaluation strategy, and budget justification. States must ensure compliance with administrative and national policy requirements, including accessibility, civil rights, and financial reporting obligations. Applicants are expected to maintain registration with the System for Award Management (SAM) and adhere to mandatory disclosures related to financial and legal integrity.