Behavioral Health · Partnerships · 5 min read
Who should behavioral health programs partner with for RHTP success?
Because states apply and are accountable; sub-recipients (providers, plans, vendors) deliver, behavioral health programs succeed through partnerships: Behavioral health providers typically sub-contract under a state behavioral health authority or integrate with rural primary care grantees. Strong proposals show a coordinated set of partners rather than a single organization acting alone.
Why partnerships win
RHTP rewards statewide, sustainable approaches. Behavioral health providers typically sub-contract under a state behavioral health authority or integrate with rural primary care grantees. A proposal that names committed partners and a clear division of labor is more credible than a solo bid.
Who to bring to the table
For behavioral health programs, the most valuable partners typically include the state agency holding the award, anchor providers, and the technology or service partners that deliver and measure the work.
Aligning incentives
Tele-behavioral health that ignores broadband and device access in the served community will under-deliver on engagement.
Frequently asked questions
- Can behavioral health programs apply alone?
- Rarely effectively. RHTP favors coordinated, statewide approaches, so partnerships materially improve competitiveness.
Figures reflect the CMS Rural Health Transformation Program NOFO and the December 2025 award announcement. RHTP Tracker is an independent resource by Moodr Health and is not affiliated with CMS.