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NJ Health Department Announces $250,000 Grant to Boost Integrated Health Care for Military, Veterans, and First Responders
TRENTON, NJ - In a major move towards enhancing healthcare services for military personnel, veterans, and first responders, the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) unveiled a $250,000 grant opportunity today.
The grant is designed to support existing programs or to stimulate the creation of innovative pilot programs that integrate primary care, behavioral health, palliative care, hospice, and telehealth services.
Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli expressed the department’s recognition of the unique challenges faced by these brave individuals, whose stressful experiences can lead to negative health impacts and emotional distress. "Providing an array of integrated programs and services can help increase access to health care and improve health outcomes," Persichilli said, emphasizing the state's commitment to its frontline workers and servicemen and women.
The grant aims to fund a total of two hospitals or healthcare systems, with each receiving $250,000. It is a clear strategy to bolster the development of integrated care networks in New Jersey, particularly networks that can effectively cater to the distinct primary and behavioral healthcare needs of military personnel, veterans, and first responders. Among the requirements for grantees is the provision of patient care, ensuring prompt appointment scheduling, and the delivery of referral services.
The NJDOH's grant has previously led to the development of programs like telehealth platforms connecting veterans to primary care, outreach initiatives to veteran organizations and EMS, and facilitated health, wellness, and stress discussions among veterans.
Hospitals and healthcare systems intending to apply for the grant are required to submit a letter of intent to the NJDOH’s Integrated Health Services branch. The deadline for submission of the letter of intent is May 31, 2023, at 2 p.m.
Once the letter of intent is submitted, applicants can then submit their full application, due on June 15 by 3 p.m. The application details and submission instructions can be found at NJDOH Grant Application.
This grant initiative represents an ongoing commitment by the NJDOH to proactively address the healthcare needs of some of the state's most deserving residents, ensuring they receive the comprehensive, integrated care they need. As such, it serves as a model for other states to consider when planning and allocating their healthcare resources for veterans, military personnel, and first responders.
