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Shortage Designation Management System

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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Health Resources and Services Administration
Bureau of Clinician Recruitment and Service
Division of Policy and Shortage Designation
Primary Care Services Resources Coordination and Development
Announcement Type: Competing Continuation
Announcement Number: HRSA-14-001
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) No. 93.130

FUNDING OPPORTUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT
Fiscal Year 2014

Application Due Date: December 31, 2013
Ensure your Grants.gov registration and passwords are current immediately!
Deadline extensions are not granted for lack of registration.
Registration may take up to one month to complete.
Modified on 11/18/13 to Add Information on a 2nd TA Call information found on page 16
Modified on 11/13/13 to Add TA Call information found on page 16
Modified on 12/19/13 to indicate the Indirect Cost Rate Agreement will not count towards the page
limit found on page 10

Release Date: October 31, 2013
Issuance Date: October 31, 2013

Judy Humphrey
Public Health Analyst, Division of Policy and Shortage Designation
Bureau of Clinician Recruitment and Service
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: (301) 443-2309
Fax: (301) 443-4370
Authority: Public Health Service Act as amended, Title 3 Section 330(l), 330(m), 333(d)

HRSA-XX-XXX

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Health Resources and Services Administration, Bureau of Clinician Recruitment and Service
(BCRS) and the Bureau of Primary Health Care (BPHC) is accepting applications for fiscal year
(FY) 2014 Primary Care Services Resource Coordination and Development Program. The
purpose of this grant program is to improve primary care service delivery and workforce
availability in the State or territory to meet the needs of underserved populations. This program
is authorized under the Public Health Service Act as amended, Title 3, Sections 330 and 333,
which provides for:



assistance to Statewide organizations in the development and delivery of comprehensive
primary health care service in areas that lack adequate numbers of health professionals or
have populations lacking access to primary care; and
technical and non-financial assistance to community-based providers of comprehensive
primary and preventive care for underserved and vulnerable populations.

Funding Opportunity Title:
Funding Opportunity Number:
Due Date for Applications:
Anticipated Total Annual Available Funding:
Estimated Number and Type of Award(s):
Estimated Award Amount:
Cost Sharing/Match Required:
Length of Project Period:
Project Start Date:
Eligible Applicants:

Primary Care Services Resource Coordination
and Development
HRSA-14-001
December 31, 2013
$11,000,000
54 grant(s)/cooperative agreement(s)
Up to $444,379 per year
No
5 years
April 1, 2014
Eligible applicants include any State or
territory, State agency, or other statewide
public or nonprofit entity that operates solely
within a state or U.S. territories.
[See Section III-1 of this funding opportunity
announcement (FOA) for complete eligibility
information.]

All applicants are responsible for reading and complying with the instructions included in
HRSA’s SF-424 Application Guide, available online at
http://www.hrsa.gov/grants/apply/applicationguide/sf424guide.pdf, except where instructed in
this funding opportunity announcement to do otherwise. A short video for applicants explaining
the new Application Guides is available at http://www.hrsa.gov/grants/apply/applicationguide/.

HRSA-14-001

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Table of Contents
I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION ................................................................................... 1
1. PURPOSE ........................................................................................................................................... 1
2. BACKGROUND .................................................................................................................................. 1
II. AWARD INFORMATION ................................................................................................................. 2
1. TYPE OF AWARD .............................................................................................................................. 2
2. SUMMARY OF FUNDING ................................................................................................................... 2
III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION...................................................................................................... 5
1. ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS .................................................................................................................... 5
2. COST SHARING/MATCHING ............................................................................................................ 5
3. OTHER .............................................................................................................................................. 5
IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION ................................................................ 5
1. ADDRESS TO REQUEST APPLICATION PACKAGE........................................................................... 5
2. CONTENT AND FORM OF APPLICATION SUBMISSION.................................................................... 5
i. Project Abstract ....................................................................................................................... 6
ii. Project Narrative ..................................................................................................................... 6
iii. Budget and Budget Justification Narrative .......................................................................... 10
iv. Attachments ........................................................................................................................... 10
3. SUBMISSION DATES AND TIMES .................................................................................................... 12
4. INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW .................................................................................................. 12
5. FUNDING RESTRICTIONS ............................................................................................................... 12
V. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION ................................................................................. 13
1. REVIEW CRITERIA ......................................................................................................................... 13
2. REVIEW AND SELECTION PROCESS .............................................................................................. 14
3. ANTICIPATED ANNOUNCEMENT AND AWARD DATES ................................................................. 14
VI. AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION......................................................................... 14
1. AWARD NOTICES ........................................................................................................................... 14
2. ADMINISTRATIVE AND NATIONAL POLICY REQUIREMENTS ...................................................... 14
3. REPORTING .................................................................................................................................... 15
VII. AGENCY CONTACTS .................................................................................................................. 15
VIII. TIPS FOR WRITING A STRONG APPLICATION ................................................................ 16

HRSA-14-001

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I. Funding Opportunity Description
1. Purpose
This announcement solicits applications for the Primary Care Services Resource Coordination
and Development program.
The Primary Care Services Resource Coordination and Development Program is intended to
facilitate the coordination of activities within a state that relate to the delivery of primary care
services and the recruitment and retention of critical health care providers. This includes
working with other agencies within the state government, as well as organizations outside of the
state government whose policies affect health care services. This program does not support the
direct delivery of services. The purpose of this funding opportunity is to support states and
territories in addressing the following overarching goals:
1. Statewide Primary Care Needs Assessment
2. Shortage Designation Coordination
3. Technical Assistance and Collaboration that Seeks to Expand Access to Primary Care
2. Background
This program is authorized by Title III of the Public Health Service Act as amended, §330(l),
330(m), 333(d).
The Primary Care Services Resource Coordination and Development Program has operated
under cooperative agreements for more than 25 years. Present individual award amounts are
primarily based on historical amounts. In FY 2011, $1 million of program funding was allocated
via a workload methodology based on the number of Health Center Program grantees. Over the
last decade, the number of Health Center Program grantees, look-alikes and HPSA/MUA
designations in each state has changed. Given this shift in workload and the methodological
approach established with the distribution of $1 million in FY 2011, the applicant’s funding
levels for FY 2014 –FY 2018 will be based on the suggested methodology as outlined in the
Summary of Funding section below.
The recipients of this funding will become vital partners in enabling HRSA, BCRS, and BPHC
to achieve the mission of improving access to health care services for people who are uninsured,
isolated or medically vulnerable. HRSA, BCRS and BPHC are committed to continuing to seek
ways through which strong partnerships can be maintained and strengthened to assist in
expanding access to quality health care for all.

HRSA-14-001

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II. Award Information
1. Type of Award
Funding will be provided in the form of a cooperative agreement. A cooperative agreement, as
opposed to a grant, is an award instrument of financial assistance where substantial involvement
is anticipated between HRSA and the recipient during performance of the contemplated project.
In addition to the usual monitoring and technical assistance provided under the cooperative
agreement, HRSA Program responsibilities shall include:
1) Providing consultation in the planning, development, and evaluation of the work plan
under the Cooperative Agreement;
2) Participating, as appropriate, in workgroups conducted during the period of the
Cooperative Agreement;
3) Monitoring the activities of the work plan through progress review, meetings, and
teleconferences.
4) Serving as the final authority on National Health Service Corps (NHSC) Site Applications
and all shortage designation actions.
The cooperative agreement recipient’s responsibilities shall include:
1) Completion of activities proposed in response to application review criteria listed in
Section V of this application.
2) Participation in face-to-face meetings and conference calls with the federal Project Officer
conducted during the period of the cooperative agreement.
3) Collaboration with the federal Project Officer on ongoing review of activities, procedures
and budget items.
4) Conduct statewide analysis of unmet need, disparities, and health workforce issues.
5) Coordinate the Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs) and Medically Underserved
Areas/Populations (MUA/Ps) designation process within the state to ensure consistent
accurate assessment of underservice including data collection, verification, and analysis
as applicable.
6) Provide technical assistance and collaboration to expand access to primary care including:
coordination of the NHSC and NURSE Corps programs and provider recruitment and
retention; collaboration with Health Center planning and development; and collaboration
with other HRSA partners and organizations to support access to primary care services.
2. Summary of Funding
This program will provide funding during Federal fiscal years 2014 - 2018. Approximately $11
million is expected to be available annually to fund fifty-four (54) recipients. Applicants may
apply for a ceiling amount of up to $444,379 per year. The project period is five (5) years.
Funding beyond the first year is dependent on the availability of appropriated funds for Primary
Care Services Resource Coordination and Development Program in subsequent fiscal years,
awardee satisfactory performance, and a decision that continued funding is in the best interest of
the Federal Government.

HRSA-14-001

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As referenced in the Background section, the following is a suggested funding methodology in
which each awardee has a base annual funding amount of $150,000 per year plus workload
funding amount whereas:
Annual Funding Amount = Base Funding + [(Total Workload Funding) x (Workload Units/Total
Workload Units)]





Base Funding is $150,000 x 54 recipients = $8,100,000
Total Workload Funding is $11,000,000 – $8,100,000 = $2,900,000
Workload Units include the total number of Health Center Program grantees and lookalikes as of June 27, 2013; and HPSAs in a given state as published in the Federal
Register June 27, 2013.
Total Workload Units include the total number of all Workload Units for each of the 54
+

For example, using the suggested funding methodology, a state with 100 Health Centers, lookalike Sites and HPSAs (not including automatic facility HPSAs) or 100 Workload Units might
request the following in annual funding.
$150,000 + [$2,900,000 x (100/16,922)] = $167,137 Annual Funding
The table below lists the Workload Units and Total Workload Units by State.
Workload Units By State

Health Centers and
Look- alike Sites

HPSAs

Total Workload
Units

Alabama

178

137

315

Alaska

176

38

214

Arizona

171

167

338

Arkansas

99

102

201

California

1407

339

1746

Colorado

201

164

365

Connecticut

208

59

267

Delaware

19

16

35

District of Columbia

53

11

64

Florida

465

402

867

Georgia

193

275

468

Hawaii

83

22

105

Idaho

77

99

176

Illinois

582

300

882

State

HRSA-14-001

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Indiana

133

104

237

Iowa

90

153

243

Kansas

53

201

254

Kentucky

143

143

286

Louisiana

143

191

334

Maine

149

65

214

Maryland

149

83

232

Massachusetts

319

59

378

Michigan

221

176

397

Minnesota

82

159

241

Mississippi

190

175

365

Missouri

211

244

455

Montana

94

91

185

Nebraska

43

20

63

Nevada

36

69

105

New Hampshire

60

12

72

New Jersey

135

36

171

New Mexico

156

99

255

New York

649

228

877

North Carolina

216

158

374

North Dakota

18

103

121

Ohio

238

185

423

Oklahoma

81

109

190

Oregon

218

99

317

Pacific Basin

19

20

39

Pennsylvania

276

204

480

Puerto Rico

77

16

93

Rhode Island

51

10

61

South Carolina

189

139

328

South Dakota

46

87

133

Tennessee

212

170

382

Texas

431

573

1004

Utah

43

66

109

Vermont

59

1

60

Virginia

161

132

293

4

8

12

Washington

262

152

414

West Virginia

244

94

338

Wisconsin

109

179

288

Wyoming

17

39

56

9,939

6,983

16,922

Virgin Islands

Total for 54 PCOs

HRSA-14-001

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III. Eligibility Information
1. Eligible Applicants
Eligible applicants include any State or territory, State agency, or other statewide public or
nonprofit entity that operates solely within a state or U.S. territories. They must provide
state/territory-wide coverage of primary health care issues and represent or have relationships
with the broad range of primary health care delivery systems and programs in the state. Eligible
applicants also include public or private non-profit entities that are part of an established network
representing the six U.S.-affiliated Pacific Basin jurisdictions (U.S. flag territories of American
Samoa, Guam, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the three freely
associated states of the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and
the Republic of Palau).
2. Cost Sharing/Matching
Cost Sharing/Matching is not required for this program.
3. Other
Applications that exceed the ceiling amount will be considered non-responsive and will not be
considered for funding under this announcement.
Any application that fails to satisfy the deadline requirements referenced in Section IV.3 will be
considered non-responsive and will not be considered for funding under this announcement.
NOTE: Multiple applications from an organization are not allowable.

IV. Application and Submission Information
1. Address to Request Application Package
HRSA requires applicants for this funding opportunity announcement to apply electronically
through Grants.gov. Applicants must download the SF424 application package associated with
this funding opportunity following the directions provided at Grants.gov.
2. Content and Form of Application Submission
Section 4 of HRSA’s SF-424 Application Guide provides instructions for the budget, budget
justification, staffing plan and personnel requirements, assurances, certifications, and abstract.
You must submit the information outlined in the Application Guide in addition to the program
specific information below. All applicants are responsible for reading and complying with the
instructions included in HRSA’s SF-424 Application Guide except where instructed in the
funding opportunity announcement to do otherwise.

HRSA-14-001

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Application Page Limit
The total size of all uploaded files may not exceed the equivalent of 80 pages when printed by
HRSA. The page limit includes the abstract, project and budget narratives, attachments, and
letters of commitment and support required in the Application Guide and this FOA. Standard
OMB-approved forms are NOT included in the page limit. We strongly urge you to print your
application to ensure it does not exceed the specified page limit.
Applications must be complete, within the specified page limit, and submitted prior to the
deadline to be considered under the announcement.
Program-specific Instructions
In addition to application requirements and instructions in Section 4 of SF-424 Application
Guide (including the budget, budget justification, staffing plan and personnel requirements,
assurances, certifications, and abstract), please include the following.
i. Project Abstract
See Section 4.1.ix of HRSA’s SF-424 Application Guide.
ii.

Project Narrative
This section provides a comprehensive framework and description of all aspects of the
proposed project. It should be succinct, self-explanatory and well organized so that reviewers
can understand the proposed project.

Use the following section headers for the Narrative:
 INTRODUCTION-- Corresponds to Section V’s Review Criteria #’s 1,2, and 4
This section should briefly describe the purpose of the proposed project. Applicants
should briefly describe how they will address each of the three (3) Program Expectations:
1. Statewide Primary Care Needs Assessment
2. Shortage Designation Coordination
3. Technical Assistance and Collaboration that Seeks to Expand Access to Primary Care
 NEEDS ASSESSMENT-- Corresponds to Section V’s Review Criterion #1
This section outlines the needs of your state or territories. The target populations and their
unmet health needs must be described and documented in this section. Demographic data
should be used and cited whenever possible to support the information provided. Discuss
any relevant barriers in the service area that the project work will work to overcome.
Include information about State/Federal programs, the political climate in the state or
territory and other relevant issues that will help/hinder you in reaching the goals of this
grant.
Please include a description of plans to develop a Statewide Primary Care Needs
Assessment to AnalyzeUnmet Need, Disparities, and Health Workforce Issues
Each recipient is expected to conduct an overall statewide primary care needs assessment
that identifies the communities with the greatest unmet health care needs, disparities, and
health workforce shortages, and also identifies the key barriers to access health care for
these communities.
HRSA-14-001

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The overall needs assessment would include (but not be limited to) identifying geographic
areas and populations at county and subcounty levels that:





Lack access to preventive and primary care services;
Experience shortage of primary care, mental health, and dental providers;
Experience key barriers to access to health care (i.e. waiting time, travel time);
Demonstrate the highest need for health services, such as levels of poverty,
infant mortality, low-birth weights, life expectancy, percent or number
unserved and underserved, designation as a MUA/P or HPSA.

The overall needs assessment will be submitted to the BCRS DPSD. The overall needs
assessment should be reviewed annually by the awardee, and updated to reflect any
significant changes.
We anticipate further standardization in HPSA and MUA/P designation processes, based
on the use of the Primary Care Service Areas (PCSAs)
(http://datawarehouse.hrsa.gov/PCSA2007.aspx) or individual state or territory wide predefined Rational Service Areas (PRSA) plans. It is strongly encouraged that the needs
assessment be based on PCSAs or PRSAs that could be the basis for shortage designation
applications submitted to HRSA. States and/or territories that choose not to use PCSAs,
and do not have a PRSA plan should provide a description of any past efforts to develop a
PRSA plan as well as a timeframe for the development of a PRSA plan. States that
currently use PCSA and/or PRSA plans should include a description of its utility to date.
In addition, provide a discussion of past and/or future plans to coordinate the collection of
provider data with all licensing boards for health professionals in the state or other
appropriate organizations.
As part of the needs assessment, the recipient should meet with the Primary Care
Association (PCA) and other entities on a regular basis to review and update assessment.
Data developed under the Needs Assessment activities should be used to support activities
for Shortage Designation Coordination.
 METHODOLOGY-- Corresponds to Section V’s Review Criteria #’s 2 and 4
This section provides a comprehensive narrative description of all aspects and activities of
the proposed program. It should be succinct, self-explanatory, and well organized so that
reviewers can clearly understand the proposed project. Awardees are expected to sustain
key elements of their grant projects, e.g., strategies or services and interventions, which
have been effective in improving practices and those that have led to improved outcomes
for the target population(s).
Applicants should address the following activities in this section:
1.

Shortage Designation Coordination
Based on the Statewide Needs Assessment, an applicant will be required to coordinate
the HPSA and MUA/P designation process within the state to ensure consistent and

HRSA-14-001

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accurate assessment of underservice, including data collection, verification, and
analysis as applicable. While private entities and individuals may submit requests
directly to the BCRS/DPSD, the awardee is expected to coordinate all shortage
designation requests including the following:
 Provide technical assistance to organizations or communities about the designation
process;
 Update existing and apply for new HPSA and MUA/P designations as needed;
 Ensure that designation applications are supported with the most up-to-date and
appropriate data; and
 Proactively seek designations for areas and populations with access to care barriers
as demonstrated by primary care, dental, or mental health provider shortages or
other high need indicators as detailed in the HPSA regulations.
 Maintain knowledge of how to submit complete and accurate HPSA and MUA/P
designation applications using current procedures.
 Participate in DPSD training programs (in conjunction with awardee meetings or
other meetings) or distance learning training (web-based training modules,
videoconferences, etc.) as deemed appropriate by DPSD staff. Upon
implementation of any new designation methodology, participation in updated
training will be required.
2. Technical Assistance and Collaboration that Seeks to Expand Access to Primary
Care
2a. Coordination of NHSC Program and Provider Recruitment and Retention:
 Support outreach and education that encourages participation in BCRS programs,
which will help sites recruit providers to work in underserved areas of the State.
Efforts may include, but not be limited to, distributing program information by
BCRS, speaking about the BCRS programs at schools in state, and distributing
program materials at public events.
 Offer technical assistance to potential and current NHSC sites in the pre-application
phase of submitting an NHSC Site Application.
 Maintain knowledge and capacity to review NHSC Site Application for merit
(community support and need for site in the area) and completeness (including
required supporting documentation and HPSA designation), as appropriate and
desired. (Note: Final documentation on site approval rests with HRSA).
 Coordinate and collaborate with other state agencies and state recruitment efforts to
incorporate resources including NHSC Scholars, Loan Repayors, and State Loan
Repayors, and/or other scholar and loan repayment programs) into the state’s
strategy to increase the number of health professionals serving in HPSAs and
MUA/Ps.
2b. Collaboration in Health Center Planning and Development:
 Collaborate with the state PCA and other interested entities by providing
information to assist in the development of new and expansion of existing health
centers in the State.
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 Serve as the point of contact to the PCA and other entities for access to and use of
relevant statewide and sub-county data to support applications for new and
expanded capacity of health centers.
 Facilitate the ability of PCAs and other entities to work with various divisions of the
State Health Department to obtain data needed to educate leaders about unmet needs
and the role of health centers and the safety net in addressing these needs, as well as
the sustainability needs of health centers.
 Work with PCA, State Offices of Rural Health (SORH), Area Health Education
Centers, and other entities to seek ways through which partnerships can be
maintained and strengthened to assist with the growth and support of health centers
and to encourage the provision of quality care.
 Work with PCA, SORH, and other entities to develop reciprocal mechanisms of
communication, information dissemination, follow-up, and referral to organizations
seeking 330 and other funding opportunities.
2c. Collaboration with Other HRSA Partners and Organizations to Support
Access to Primary Care Services
 Collaborate with other HRSA-supported entities, (e.g., the state PCA, the SORH,
and other appropriate entities) to provide technical assistance to communities and
organizations interested in expanding access to care and to maximize the
effectiveness and impact of activities through formal linkages with diverse entities
working to strengthen the safety net in the state/region.
 Collect, maintain, and report on the number of J-1 visa waiver clinicians and other
similar programs practicing in the state.
 Support and enhance access to comprehensive, culturally competent, quality primary
health care services for underserved and vulnerable populations.
 WORK PLAN-- Corresponds to Section V’s Review Criteria #’s 2 and 4
The applicant’s work plan must be aligned with the intent and goals of the Primary Care
Services Coordination and Development Program during the entire project period.
Describe the steps that will be used to achieve each activity proposed in the methodology
section. The work plan is a matrix that carefully integrates goals, objectives, activities,
outputs and how the output will be measured. The matrix outlines the individual(s)
responsible for carrying out each activity and includes a project timeline and should
provide an accompanying narrative that describes how the goals and activities in the matrix
will be accomplished. Project objectives must be specific, measurable, achievable,
relevant and timely.
 RESOLUTION OF CHALLENGES-- Corresponds to Section V’s Review Criterion #2
Discuss challenges that are likely to be encountered in designing and implementing the
activities described in the Work Plan, and approaches that will be used to resolve such
challenges.
 EVALUATION AND TECHNICAL SUPPORT CAPACITY -- Corresponds to Section V’s
Review Criterion #3
Applicants must describe the plan for the program performance evaluation that will
contribute to continuous quality improvement. The program performance evaluation

HRSA-14-001

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should monitor ongoing processes and the progress towards the goals and objectives of the
project. Include descriptions of the inputs (e.g., organizational profile, collaborative
partners, key staff, budget, and other resources), key processes, and expected outcomes of
the funded activities.
Applicants must describe the systems and processes that will support the organization's
performance management requirements through effective tracking of performance
outcomes, including a description of how the organization will collect and manage data
(e.g., assigned skilled staff, data management software) in a way that allows for accurate
and timely reporting of performance outcomes. Describe current experience, skills, and
knowledge, including individuals on staff, materials published, and previous work of a
similar nature. As appropriate, describe the data collection strategy to collect, analyze and
track data to measure process and impact/outcomes and explain how the data will be used
to inform program development and service delivery. Specify what data will be collected,
the method for collecting the data, the manner in which data will be reported and
analyzed, and what personnel will be involved with these activities. Applicants must
describe any potential obstacles for implementing the program performance evaluation
and how those obstacles will be addressed.
 ORGANIZATIONAL INFORMATION-- Corresponds to Section V’s Review Criterion #5
Provide information on the applicant organization’s current mission and structure, scope of
current activities, and an organizational chart, and describe how these all contribute to the
ability of the organization to conduct the program requirements and meet program
expectations. Describe how the unique needs of target populations of the communities
served are routinely assessed and improved.
iii. Budget and Budget Justification Narrative
In addition to the instructions in Section 4.1.iv and v. of HRSA’s SF-424 Application Guide
the Primary Care Services Resource Coordination and Development Program requires the
following:
An approved Indirect Cost Rate Agreement must be included in the budget but it will not
count towards the 80 page limit.
The General Provisions in Division F, Title V of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2012
(P.L. 112-74) and continued through the Consolidated and Further Continuing
Appropriations Act, 2013 (P. L. 113-6), apply to this program. These provisions include a
salary rate limitation. Please see Section 4.1.iv Budget – Salary Limitation of HRSA’s SF424 Application Guide for additional information.
Although there may be variations from the general funding method described in the Summary
of Funding section above, the applicant’s budget should closely align with the general method
suggested. Please note that budget requests can be submitted for less than amount generated
by the suggested methodology.
iv.

Attachments

Please provide the following items in the order specified below to complete the content of the
application. Please note that these are supplementary in nature, and are not intended to be a
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continuation of the project narrative. Unless otherwise noted, attachments count toward the
application page limit. Each attachment must be clearly labeled.
Attachment 1: Work Plan
Attach the Work Plan for the project that includes all information detailed in
Section IV. 2. ii. Project Narrative.
Attachment 2: Staffing Plan and Job Descriptions for Key Personnel (see section 4.1. of the
HRSA’s SF-424 Application Guide)
Keep each job description to one page in length as much as is possible. Include the role,
responsibilities, and qualifications of proposed project staff.
Attachment 3: Biographical Sketches of Key Personnel
Include biographical sketches for persons occupying the key positions described in
Attachment 2, not to exceed two pages in length. In the event that a biographical sketch
is included for an identified individual who is not yet hired, please include a letter of
commitment from that person with the biographical sketch.
Attachment 4: Letters of Agreement and/or Description(s) of Proposed/Existing Contracts
(project specific)
Provide any documents that describe working relationships between the applicant
organization and other entities and programs cited in the proposal. Documents that
confirm actual or pending contractual agreements should clearly describe the roles of the
contractors and any deliverable. Letters of agreement must be dated.
Attachment 5: Project Organizational Chart
Provide a one-page figure that depicts the organizational structure of the project.
Attachment 6: Tables, Charts, etc.
To give further details about the proposal (e.g., Gantt or PERT charts, flow charts, etc.).
Attachment 7: For Multi-Year Budgets--Fifth Year Budget
After using columns (1) through (4) of the SF-424A Section B for a five-year project
period, the applicant will need to submit the budgets for year 5 as an attachment. Please
use the SF-424A Section B.
Attachment 8: Summary Progress Report
A well written accomplishment summary provides a record of past accomplishments. It
is an important source of material for HRSA in preparing annual reports, planning
programs, and communicating program-specific accomplishments. The accomplishments
of competing continuation applicants are carefully considered during the review process;
therefore, applicants are advised to include previously stated goals and objectives in their
application and emphasize the progress made in attaining these goals and objectives.
Because the Accomplishment Summary is considered when applications are reviewed
and scored, competing continuation applicants who do not include an
Accomplishment Summary may not receive as high a score as applicants who do.
The Accomplishment Summary will be evaluated as part of Review Criterion 4:
IMPACT.

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The accomplishment summary should be a brief presentation of the accomplishments, in
relation to the objectives of the program during the current project period. The report
should include:
(1) The period covered (dates).
(2) Specific Objectives - Briefly summarize the specific objectives of the project as
actually funded. Because of peer review recommendations and/or budgetary
modifications made by the awarding unit, these objectives may differ in scope from
those stated in the competing application.
(3) Results- Describe the program activities conducted for each objective. Include both
positive and negative results or technical problems that may be important.
Attachments 9 – 15: Other Relevant Documents
Include here any other documents that are relevant to the application, including letters of
support. Letters of support must be dated and specifically indicate a commitment to the
project/program (in-kind services, dollars, staff, space, equipment, etc.) List all other
support letters on one page.
3. Submission Dates and Times
Application Due Date
The due date for applications under this funding opportunity announcement is December 31,
2013 at 11:59 P.M. Eastern Time.
4. Intergovernmental Review
The Primary Care Services Resource Coordination and Development Program is not a program
subject to the provisions of Executive Order 12372, as implemented by 45 CFR 100.
5. Funding Restrictions
Applicants responding to this announcement may request funding for a project period of up to
five (5) years at no more than $444,379 per year. Awards to support projects beyond the first
budget year will be contingent upon Congressional appropriation, satisfactory progress in
meeting the project’s objectives, and a determination that continued funding would be in the best
interest of the Federal Government.
The General Provisions in Division F, Title V of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2012
(P.L. 112-74) and continued through the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations
Act, 2013 (P. L. 113-6), apply to this program. Please see Section 4.1 of HRSA’s SF-424
Application Guide for additional information.
All program income generated as a result of awarded grant funds must be used for approved
project-related activities.

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V. Application Review Information
1. Review Criteria
Procedures for assessing the technical merit of applications have been instituted to provide for an
objective review of applications and to assist the applicant in understanding the standards against
which each application will be judged. Critical indicators have been developed for each review
criterion to assist the applicant in presenting pertinent information related to that criterion and to
provide the reviewer with a standard for evaluation. Review criteria are outlined below with
specific detail and scoring points.
Review Criteria are used to review and rank applications. The Primary Care Services Resource
Coordination and Development Program has six (6) review criteria:
Criterion 1: NEED (10 points) – Corresponds to Section IV, 2. ii’s NEEDS ASSESSMENT
This criterion examines the extent to which the application clearly:
1. Demonstrates the extent of the State’s underserved areas or populations and factors
resulting in underservice.
2. Identifies and describes the purpose and need for grant support for this project including
relevant data.
Criterion 2: RESPONSE (20 points) – Corresponds to Section IV, 2. ii’s INTRODUCTION,
METHODOLOGY, and WORK PLAN
The extent to which the proposed project responds to the “Purpose” included in the program
description.
1. The work plan should clearly articulate and address the specific program expectations
outlined in the program narrative section.
2. The extent to which the activities described in the application are related to and address
access to health care for the underserved and successfully accomplish the project
objectives.
3. The extent to which the applicant demonstrates knowledge of the array of primary care
access and delivery issues, services, and organizations working throughout the State to
address these needs, and how the applicant will coordinate and collaborate with these
existing efforts.
4. Objectives have specific outcomes which are measureable, attainable, and include
timeframes which are within the project period .
Criterion 3: EVALUATIVE MEASURES (20 points) – Corresponds to Section IV, 2. ii’s
EVALUATION AND TECHNICAL SUPPORT CAPACITY
The strength and effectiveness of the method proposed to monitor and evaluate the project
results. Evidence that the evaluative measures will be able to assess: 1) a clear, practical, and
viable work plan including timeframes and proposed outcomes; and 2) clear links of project
activities to the project objectives and outcomes.
Criterion 4: IMPACT (20 points) – Corresponds to Section IV, 2. ii’s INTRODUCTION,
METHODOLOGY, and WORK PLAN
Extent to which the activities described clearly contribute to the accomplishment of each
objective.

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1. The extent to which the proposed activities are reasonable given the level and
experience of staff, resources available, and length of the project period to the project
objectives and outcomes.
2. The feasibility and effectiveness of plans for dissemination of project results, the
extent to which project results may be national in scope, the degree to which the
project activities are replicable, and the sustainability of the program beyond the
Federal funding.
Criterion 5: RESOURCES/CAPABILITIES (15 points) – Corresponds to Section IV, 2. ii’s
ORGANIZATIONAL INFORMATION
The extent to which project personnel are qualified by training and/or experience to implement
and carry out the project.
1. The capabilities of the applicant organization and the quality and availability of
facilities and personnel to fulfill the needs and requirements of the proposed project.
2. The program’s personnel experience and success in working with State policies and
resources in addressing primary care needs of the underserved.
Criterion 6: SUPPORT REQUESTED (15 points) – Corresponds to Section IV, 2, iii’s Budget
and Budget Justification Narrative
A budget plan that outlines an effective and efficient use of grant funds and resources to
successfully carry out the project is provided.
1. A clear and detailed line item narrative justification to support the need for each
overarching goal is provided for each year of funding requested.
2. The reasonableness of the proposed budget for each year of the project period in
relation to the objectives, the complexity of the activities, and the anticipated results.
a. The extent to which costs, as outlined in the budget and required resources
sections, are reasonable given the work load and scope of work.
b. The extent to which key personnel have adequate time devoted to the project to
achieve project objectives.
2. Review and Selection Process
Please see section 5.3 of the HRSA’s SF-424 Application Guide.
3. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates
It is anticipated that awards will be announced prior to the start date of April 1, 2014.

VI. Award Administration Information
1. Award Notices
The Notice of Award will be sent prior to the start date of April 1, 2014. See section 5.4 of
HRSA’s SF-424 Application Guide for additional information.
2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements
See section 2 of HRSA’s SF-424 Application Guide.
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3. Reporting
The successful applicant under this funding opportunity announcement must comply with
Section 6 of HRSA’s SF-424 Application Guide and the following reporting and review
activities:
Annual Progress Report.
For each year of this cooperative agreement, an annual progress report on work plan activities
accomplished during the budget year will be due in EHBs and report guidance will be provided
at a later date.
For each year of this cooperative agreement, the Performance Measures Reporting Period will
capture twelve (12) months of activities starting April 1, 2014 and ending on March 31, 2015 for
year one. Submission of Performance Measure Reports into EHBs will be required and guidance
on due dates will be forthcoming. An email notification will be sent from EHBs as a reminder
that a report is due, including instructions on how to provide the report through the EHB system.
Further reporting guidance including performance measures will be provided in a future date.
The awardee must submit a Federal Financial Report (FFR) no later than July 30 of each year of
the cooperative agreement. The first one would be due no later than July 30, 2015. The report
should reflect cumulative reporting within the project period and must be submitted using the
Electronic Handbooks (EHBs).

VII. Agency Contacts
Applicants may obtain additional information regarding business, administrative, or fiscal issues
related to this funding opportunity announcement by contacting:
Marc Horner, Grants Management Specialist
Division of Grants Management Operations
OFAM, HRSA
Parklawn Building, Room 11-103
5600 Fishers Lane
Rockville, MD 20857
Telephone: (301) 443-4888
Fax: (301) 443-6686
Email: [email protected]
Additional information related to the overall program issues and/or technical assistance
regarding this funding announcement may be obtained by contacting:
Judy Humphrey, Program Coordinator
Division of Policy and Shortage Designation
BCRS, HRSA
Parklawn Building, Room 9A-55
5600 Fishers Lane
Rockville, MD 20857
Telephone: (301) 443-2309
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Fax: (301) 443-4370
Email: [email protected]
Applicants may need assistance when working online to submit their application forms
electronically. Applicants should always obtain a case number when calling for support. For
assistance with submitting the application in Grants.gov, contact Grants.gov 24 hours a day,
seven days a week, excluding Federal holidays at:
Grants.gov Contact Center
Telephone: 1-800-518-4726 (International Callers, please dial 606-545-5035)
E-mail: [email protected]
iPortal: http://grants.gov/iportal
Successful applicants/awardees may need assistance when working online to submit information
and reports electronically through HRSA’s Electronic Handbooks (EHBs). For assistance with
submitting information in HRSA’s EHBs, contact the HRSA Call Center, Monday-Friday, 9:00
a.m. to 5:30 p.m. ET:
HRSA Contact Center
Telephone: (877) 464-4772
TTY: (877) 897-9910
E-mail: [email protected]

VIII. Other Information
All applicants are encouraged to participate in a technical assistance (TA) webinar for this
funding opportunity. The technical assistance webinar will be held on November 14, 2013 from
2-3 PM Eastern Time. The Call-in Number is 800-857-9369 and the pass code is 6839104. The
purpose of the webinar is to assist potential applicants in preparing applications that address the
requirements of this funding announcement. Participation in a pre-application TA webinar is
optional. A questions and answers document as well as a replay of the call will be posted at
www.hrsa.gov/grants/apply/assistance/pco/ shortly after 2PM ET on November 14, 2013 and
remain available until close of business December 31, 2013.
To finish the TA call from November 14, 2013, an additional TA call has been scheduled for
Thursday, November 21, 2013 from 2-3 PM Eastern Time. The Call-in Number is 800-8579369 and the pass code is 6839104.

IX. Tips for Writing a Strong Application
See section 4.7 of HRSA’s SF-424 Application Guide.

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File Typeapplication/pdf
File TitleHRSA Funding Opportunity Announcement
AuthorHRSA DGP
File Modified2015-11-09
File Created2014-01-10

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