HHS Announces New State Innovation Models Initiative - July 24, 2012

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on July 19 announced the launch of a new initiative that will allow states to design and test improvements to their health systems while lowering costs and improving quality. This competitive funding opportunity – the State Innovation Models Initiative – will fund states as they work to implement innovative multipayer payment and delivery models. Interested states can apply for two types of awards: Model Testing or Model Design. The Model Testing awards will go to states that have already developed innovative models and the Model Design awards will provide funding and technical assistance to states as they look for the best model for them. HHS will choose up to five states in the initial round of the Model Testing awards and up to 25 states for the Model Design awards. A second opportunity will most likely be offered next year. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services will host a webinar on July 28 to provide more information about this funding opportunity.