Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS): Impact on Population Health

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), under the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (NCCDPHP), has released a funding opportunity through its Division of Population Health. This opportunity supports the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) and aims to enhance the collection, use, and dissemination of population health data across U.S. states, territories, and freely associated states. The BRFSS program collects critical data on behavioral health risks among adults aged 18 and over who live outside of institutions, and plays a vital role in understanding health disparities and guiding public health actions at both local and national levels. The overarching goal of this program is to increase the availability and timely access to BRFSS data for smaller, sub-state geographic areas such as counties and metropolitan statistical areas. This initiative specifically aims to improve surveillance capabilities to address health disparities, particularly among underrepresented and historically underserved communities. The program encourages innovative data collection methods, such as web-based surveys and enhanced telephone interviewing, and emphasizes the development of local surveillance plans aligned with CDC guidelines. Funding is provided through cooperative agreements, with a total estimated funding of $159 million over a five-year performance period. Annual budget periods are set at 12 months, with expected awards ranging between $70,000 and $600,000 per recipient each year. A maximum of one award will be granted per state, territory, or freely associated state, with the highest-scoring application receiving priority if multiple submissions are received from a single jurisdiction. No cost sharing or matching is required, though voluntary contributions must be reported if included. Eligible applicants include a wide array of organizations, such as state and local governments, Native American tribal entities, nonprofit and for-profit organizations, and institutions of higher education. The opportunity is classified as "unrestricted," although applicants must meet specific criteria outlined in the initial review process. A signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) or Agreement (MOA) with the state health department is required, outlining data access and collaborative roles. Applicants must also demonstrate relevant technical capacity, experience with survey methodologies, and a clear plan for partnership development and data dissemination. Applications are to be submitted electronically through Grants.gov by April 15, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. An optional letter of intent was due by March 1, 2024. The anticipated award date is July 1, 2024, with project start dates commencing on August 1, 2024. Submissions must include a detailed project narrative, budget narrative, staffing plan, resumes for key personnel, organizational chart, and MOU/MOA. Evaluation criteria focus on the applicant's approach, organizational capacity, and methods for performance measurement. Performance monitoring will be conducted throughout the award period, including annual and final reporting requirements. This funding opportunity is recurring and expected to continue annually. It supports national public health priorities aligned with Healthy People 2030, and promotes equitable access to health data to improve public health outcomes across diverse communities.

Follow formatting and submission instructions strictly; ensure MOU/MOA is signed by authorized state official; align narrative to logic model strategies and evaluation outcomes; failure to include all required attachments results in disqualification.