State of South Dakota Announces Second Round of Rural Health Transformation Requests for Proposals
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 3, 2026
MEDIA CONTACT: Tia Kafka, DOHMedia@state.sd.us
State of South Dakota Announces Second Round of Rural Health Transformation Requests for Proposals
PIERRE, S.D. – The State of South Dakota’s Rural Health Transformation (RHT) initiative has released the next round of Request for Proposals (RFP) focused on strengthening rural, tribal, and frontier health care systems through digital health modernization, coordinated delivery of care methods, and project management.
“The Rural Health Transformation initiative drives stronger, more integrated and connected health care systems to meet people where they are,” said Melissa Magstadt, Secretary of Health. “This next round of RFPs provides opportunities for partners to support implementation efforts through key leadership and project management roles. These future contracts will help South Dakota improve access to care, modernize health technology systems, and strengthen long-term sustainability for our state’s communities.”
In Governor Larry Rhoden’s State of the State Address, he urged the South Dakota Legislature to make RHT funding the first bill to reach his desk. They delivered on that request, and Governor Rhoden quickly signed HB 1044 into law.
Three New RFPs that are Available Include the Following:
- Doula Workforce Advancement Program
Selected applicants will strengthen the doula workforce and improve maternal and infant health outcomes by enhancing support across the perinatal period. Projects may include training additional doulas, expanding community-based and Tribal doula programs, and strengthening partnerships to improve care coordination and continuity of care. - Statewide Maternal Health Access and Services Assessment
The awarded vendor will assess the maternal health landscape in South Dakota to identify strengths, gaps, and opportunities to improve access to maternal and infant care across the prenatal and postpartum periods. - Rural Health Forward
The awarded South Dakota-based partner organization will develop, implement, host, and maintain Rural Health Forward. Rural Health Forward is a statewide training and resource hub designed to close gaps in education, training, and professional development between urban and rural healthcare professionals.
How to Access the RFPs
All current Rural Health Transformation RFPs are available for review and application through the state’s posting board at: https://postingboard.esmsolutions.com/3444a404-3818-494f-84c5-2a850acd7779/events.
Applicants should review each RFP carefully for eligibility requirements, application instructions, and submission deadlines.
For more information about Rural Health Transformation efforts in South Dakota, visit ruralhealthtransformation.sd.gov.
The Rural Health Transformation initiative is a statewide effort focused on strengthening rural healthcare systems and improving access to quality care across South Dakota. Through strategic investments, innovative care models, and cross-agency collaboration, Rural Health Transformation is designed to build a more resilient, connected, and sustainable rural health system for communities across the state.
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