On August 16, 2012, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) announced it has $1,275,000 in funds available for its Rural Health Network Development Planning Program. The one-year program supports plans to develop new, integrated health care networks that will expand access to, coordinate and improve the quality of essential health care services while strengthening the rural health care system as a whole. Proposed networks must include a minimum of three separately owned partners with an interest in a community’s health care system and may include social service agencies, faith-based organizations, mental health agencies, charitable organizations, educational institutions, employers, local government agencies and other health-related entities. Existing networks seeking to expand services or their service area are not eligible, but existing networks that propose to collaborate with at least two additional organizations may apply. Plan components should include community health and/or provider needs assessments; business, operation or strategic plans; and health information technology investments. HRSA anticipates making fifteen (15) awards of no more than $85,000 each.  Applications are due October 15, 2012. For detailed information on this opportunity, click here.