Perinatal and Pediatric Behavioral Health Teleconsultation and Education Project

Summary

This opportunity supports the expansion of behavioral health education and teleconsultation services for women, infants, and children in rural Tennessee, under the federal Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP). The Perinatal and Pediatric Behavioral Health Teleconsultation and Education Project (RFA #34320-19626) aims to build a sustainable statewide system by providing psychiatric consultation, provider training, care navigation, and linkage to community-based services for perinatal and pediatric professionals. The focus is on modernizing technology, extending access, and improving behavioral health outcomes for individuals from pregnancy through 12 months postpartum and children up to age 21. The grant is a part of the TDH strategy to reverse rural hospital decline, strengthen local economies, and support sustainable health systems.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include rural hospitals, health systems, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), non-profit and community-based organizations, and other healthcare partners. Applicants must be registered with the State of Tennessee and must certify compliance with program eligibility as described in RFA #34320-19626 and the Tennessee RHTP Eligibility & Compliance Acknowledgement. Only one statewide applicant will be selected.

Requirements Checklist

• Applicants must provide integrated behavioral health teleconsultation and education services targeting women, infants, and children in rural Tennessee communities. Services must include real-time clinical guidance for perinatal and pediatric professionals, provider training, care navigation, and linkage to community services. Required staffing includes a licensed physician lead/medical director, perinatal psychiatrist, child/adolescent psychiatrist, licensed psychologist, and licensed mental health professional (LMHP). Minor facility renovations directly linked to program goals are allowed but may not exceed 20% of the project budget. Applicants must comply with all state and federal requirements, review and complete the Tennessee RHTP Eligibility & Compliance Acknowledgement, and ensure all activities are within allowable use of funds.