HRSA Launches $50M Initiative to Support Opioid Treatment and Recovery Services in Rural Communities

Funding will support establishing and expanding comprehensive substance use disorder treatment and recovery services in rural areas, including by increasing access to medications for opioid use disorder, such as buprenorphine.

Opioid use disorder is particularly concerning in rural communities and accessing treatment can be challenging due to geographic isolation, transportation barriers, and limited substance use disorder providers. This week, HRSA hosted more than 800 rural community leaders working at the grassroots level to build their communities’ capacity to turn the tide of the opioid epidemic.

HRSA’s awards empower rural awardees to address unique needs and challenges on a local level. Funding will support rural community activities such as mobile units providing MOUD (medication for opioid use disorder) and integration of MOUD prescribing and support into rural primary care settings. Funding also will support rural recovery services such as facilitating supportive employment opportunities for individuals in recovery.

Applicants are able to integrate supportive services—such as food access, housing support and employment training and opportunities and other social determinants of health in their grant proposals. Notably, funding can support transportation to facilitate access to treatment and recovery-related appointments as transportation is often a significant barrier to access in rural communities.

Applicants also may use funding to expand their rural substance use disorder workforce, including clinical providers and peer support professionals who help individuals find and sustain a path to recovery. Average awards are expected to be up to $750,000 per year over four years.

Applications will be accepted through May 6, 2024.