The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) released a Funding Opportunity Announcement for its Innovation in Care Integration for Children and Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and Other Developmental Disabilities (OD) Program. The purpose of this program is to demonstrate how telehealth networks are used to support the implementation of strategies to integrate care at a state system level for children and youth with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities. This program will have a special emphasis on improving care for children and youth in medically underserved populations. Objectives include increases in: 1) the identification of at-risk children; 2) the enrollment in services before 37 months of age; 3) the enrollment in services for children residing in medically underserved communities before 37 months of age; 4) the proportion of children with ASD and OD (and their families) who report improved knowledge, skill, ability and self-efficacy; and 5) referrals of at-risk children to early intervention programs.

HRSA anticipates making just six grant awards of up to $420,000 per year for the three-year program period beginning September 1, 2016. Applicants must establish a multidisciplinary project advisory group made of a stakeholders (including state LEND and IDEA leaders, family support organizations, and relevant state chapters of professional organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics). Applications are due May 10, 2016.