Critical Access Hospitals to Rural Emergency Hospitals Conversion Grants

Summary

Nebraska RHTP Initiative 2.5 provides funding for Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs) and Rural Emergency Hospitals (REHs) to complete infrastructure, technology, and equipment improvements that support expanded service lines, promote quality improvement, and strengthen financial stability. Funding must be used for minor improvements and does not support major construction or operating costs. Awarded projects are selected based on demonstrated need, projected impact, and a strategic financial plan with return-on-investment analysis. The maximum award per application is $67,600; all funds must be expended by July 31, 2027.

Eligibility

Applicants must be Nebraska Critical Access Hospitals or Rural Emergency Hospitals that demonstrate, through a financial plan and analysis, how infrastructure, technology, or equipment improvements will improve access to care, expand or enhance service lines, or advance quality of care. A strategic financial plan with ROI analysis developed within the past three years must support the application.

Requirements Checklist

• Applications must include: (1) Application cover sheet; (2) Work plan with activities and timelines (template provided); (3) Budget (Financial Workbook format); (4) One-page summary of the proposal; and (5) A strategic financial plan with return-on-investment analysis from the past three years. Administrative/indirect costs are capped at 7.5%. No major construction, operating costs, or EHR implementation may be funded.

Required attachments

• Application cover sheet