Care to Consumer: Telepods Grant Program

The Care to Consumer: Telepods funding opportunity is offered under the GREAT Health Program, administered by the Georgia Department of Community Health and supported by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. This program is part of the Rural Health Transformation Program and is designed to expand healthcare access in underserved rural communities. The funding opportunity represents Budget Period 1 of the program and supports initiatives that improve healthcare delivery infrastructure, particularly in areas with limited access to primary care services. The program operates under strict federal compliance requirements, and awardees must adhere to all applicable laws, policies, and grant terms. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to support the deployment of Point-of-Care Telepods in rural communities across Georgia. These Telepods are self-contained, soundproof healthcare stations equipped with real-time audio and video capabilities, as well as diagnostic tools that allow licensed clinicians to remotely assess patients. The goal is to provide non-emergent telehealth services, including primary care consultations, vital sign monitoring, and basic diagnostic evaluations. By enabling patients to access care without appointments, the program seeks to reduce barriers to healthcare access and decrease unnecessary use of emergency departments for non-urgent conditions. Funding is specifically intended for the acquisition, installation, and operational setup of Telepods. These units must meet detailed technical and accessibility specifications, including compliance with ADA standards, reliable internet connectivity, and integration with hospital electronic health record systems. Vendors must provide turnkey solutions, including installation, maintenance, and staff training. Additionally, Telepods must include features such as sanitization processes between patients, diagnostic equipment, and the ability to scan identification and insurance documents. Funds may not be used for pre-award costs, and applicants must ensure that all expenditures align with program requirements and timelines. Eligibility for this opportunity is limited to rural hospitals located in Georgia that serve designated rural or partially rural counties as defined by the GREAT Health Program. Priority consideration is given to hospitals that have previously submitted a Letter of Intent related to the AHEAD model pre-implementation. Applicants must demonstrate readiness to implement the Telepod solution, including identifying a vendor prior to funding approval and providing assurances that operations will be financially sustainable after the grant period ends. A sustainability plan is a required component of the application. The application process is conducted through the GREAT Health Application Portal, with the funding round opening on May 15, 2026, and closing on June 15, 2026. Applicants must follow all portal instructions and provide complete documentation, including technical specifications, operational plans, and sustainability strategies. Applications are evaluated based on eligibility, completeness, and need, with particular emphasis on improving access in medically underserved areas as defined by the Health Resources and Services Administration. Award decisions are made after a formal review and scoring process. Up to 20 awards are expected, with each award providing a fixed funding amount. The performance period begins upon award and runs through October 30, 2026, with all funds required to be expended by September 30, 2027. Applicants will be notified following the review process, and successful recipients must comply with all reporting and operational requirements. For questions related to the application process, applicants are directed to contact the program support email provided in the funding announcement.

Ensure vendor readiness and sustainability planning; prioritize underserved areas; align with telehealth access goals