EMS Equipment Grant

The DPHHS Equipment Grant Application is administered by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services as part of the state Rural Health Transformation Program. This program is designed to improve access to affordable, high quality healthcare services across Montana, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The Rural Health Transformation Program addresses systemic healthcare disparities through multiple coordinated initiatives, including investments in infrastructure, workforce, and service delivery. Within this broader framework, the EMS Equipment Grant specifically supports emergency medical services agencies by strengthening foundational emergency response capacity. The primary purpose of this grant opportunity is to provide financial assistance to EMS agencies operating in or serving rural areas of Montana so they can upgrade ambulances and critical medical equipment. The program recognizes that aging equipment, insufficient resources, and service gaps contribute to disparities in patient outcomes in rural communities. By targeting these needs, the grant seeks to modernize emergency response capabilities and improve the quality and timeliness of care provided to residents regardless of geographic location. Funding for this opportunity totals four million dollars in the first year, allocated across eligible EMS agencies based on demonstrated need and expected impact. Allowable uses of funds include the purchase of ambulances and medical equipment that directly enhance emergency response capabilities. Awardees are required to procure equipment through a DPHHS approved group purchasing organization or vendor, ensuring compliance with state procurement standards. The department retains the authority to adjust funding levels based on budget changes, audit findings, or performance issues related to the delivery of services. Eligibility for the grant is limited to EMS agencies that are located in or serve rural areas within Montana. Applicants must demonstrate need through factors such as the age and operational condition of existing equipment, identified gaps in patient care, and the level and type of services provided. Agencies are also evaluated based on the anticipated positive outcomes resulting from the requested equipment upgrades. Applicants may verify their rural designation through the Rural Health Grants Eligibility Analyzer prior to submission. The application process is conducted through an online submission portal hosted on Submittable. The application period opened on July 16, 2026 and closes on August 15, 2026. Applicants are required to complete all criteria questions carefully, as failure to meet specified requirements may result in ineligibility for certain equipment categories. The review process considers alignment with program goals, demonstrated need, and the potential for improved healthcare outcomes. While specific evaluation scoring criteria are not explicitly detailed, the emphasis is placed on need based justification, service capacity, and expected benefits to rural populations. Applicants must ensure that their proposals align with the broader objectives of the Rural Health Transformation Program and the CMS approved state plan. The department reserves the right to modify or terminate funding agreements if funding becomes unavailable or if awardees fail to meet contractual obligations. For additional information or assistance with the application, applicants may contact Rachel Fox via email. The grant represents a targeted effort by the state of Montana to strengthen emergency medical infrastructure and improve equitable access to emergency healthcare services across rural communities.

Ensure strong justification of equipment need and clearly demonstrate impact on patient care outcomes