The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) announced on Apr. 2 that it is accepting proposals to launch and implement the Rural Health Transformation Program’s Center of Excellence (CoE) initiative.
The effort aims to improve rural health care across Montana by establishing a central hub for innovation and support, with the goal of modernizing care delivery in underserved areas. The DPHHS is requesting proposals both to create the CoE itself and to support facilities in putting its recommendations into practice.
DPHHS Director Charlie Brereton said, “As we continue to move the historic Rural Health Transformation Program forward, we are eager to bring on partners to assist the Department in establishing and operating the Rural Health Center of Excellence, as well as implementing its recommendations on the ground. The CoE represents our deep commitment to using data to meaningfully modernize rural health care in every corner of our state.”
According to DPHHS, additional funding opportunities will be made available over coming months, with updates posted at ruralhealth.mt.gov. A centralized web page has been set up with resources such as a vendor checklist, helpful videos, and frequently asked questions for those interested in participating. The program received a $233 million investment from the Trump administration through Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), part of a five-year federal grant that could total up to $1.2 billion for Montana’s rural health providers.
The department finalized its first-year budget after CMS approval on Feb. 19, 2026, allowing funds distribution through competitive bidding processes at bids.mt.gov and other avenues like grants or inter-agency agreements. Community input has shaped implementation so far; more than 600 Montanans attended an advisory meeting at Montana State University in January.
The DPHHS advances healthy living conditions by empowering individuals through evidence-based programs across communities according to its official website. It oversees specialized facilities including Montana State Hospital and veterans’ homes according to its official website, aiming overall to enhance health, safety, well-being and independence statewide according to its official website. Direction comes from an executive team focused on strategic oversight according to its official website, delivering supports from mountains to plains according to its official website while building healthier communities through partnerships with local organizations according to its official website.
Potential vendors can find procurement details online or email HHSRuralHealthTransformation@mt.gov with questions about participation.
