This bill, titled the Health Access Innovation Act of 2025, establishes a new Health Equity Innovation Grant Program under the Public Health Service Act. The program authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award grants to eligible faith- or community-based organizations. The primary goal of these grants is to expand access to culturally and linguistically appropriate care, encourage innovation, and address persistent health inequities and chronic disease challenges across communities. Grant funds can be used for various purposes, including paying for necessary medical services, health screenings, and preventive care, as well as expanding access to healthcare and public health services. The program also supports the diversification of health workers, such as community health navigators and peer support specialists , and addresses social determinants of health. To be eligible, organizations must demonstrate an ability to address chronic health disparities and be located in medically underserved communities or health professional shortage areas, with priority given to entities active during public health emergencies. The bill authorizes appropriations starting at $50 million for fiscal year 2026, increasing annually to $70 million by fiscal year 2029, with a cap on administrative costs.
This bill, titled the Health Access Innovation Act of 2025, establishes a new Health Equity Innovation Grant Program under the Public Health Service Act. The program authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award grants to eligible faith- or community-based organizations. The primary goal of these grants is to expand access to culturally and linguistically appropriate care, encourage innovation, and address persistent health inequities and chronic disease challenges across communities. Grant funds can be used for various purposes, including paying for necessary medical services, health screenings, and preventive care, as well as expanding access to healthcare and public health services. The program also supports the diversification of health workers, such as community health navigators and peer support specialists , and addresses social determinants of health. To be eligible, organizations must demonstrate an ability to address chronic health disparities and be located in medically underserved communities or health professional shortage areas, with priority given to entities active during public health emergencies. The bill authorizes appropriations starting at $50 million for fiscal year 2026, increasing annually to $70 million by fiscal year 2029, with a cap on administrative costs.