Safety-Net Providers · Partnerships · 5 min read
Who should safety-net providers and FQHCs partner with for RHTP success?
Because states apply and are accountable; sub-recipients (providers, plans, vendors) deliver, safety-net providers and FQHCs succeed through partnerships: FQHCs and safety-net clinics participate as sub-recipients, frequently in partnership with hospitals and behavioral health agencies. Strong proposals show a coordinated set of partners rather than a single organization acting alone.
Why partnerships win
RHTP rewards statewide, sustainable approaches. FQHCs and safety-net clinics participate as sub-recipients, frequently in partnership with hospitals and behavioral health agencies. 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 safety-net providers and FQHCs, 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
Enabling services are easy to fund and hard to sustain; build them into a reimbursable or measurable model early.
Frequently asked questions
- Can safety-net providers and FQHCs 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.