Component B: Center for Health Systems Improvement

The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH), through its Bureau of Tobacco Control, invites applications for Component B of its Tobacco Control Program, titled “Center for Health Systems Improvement.” This funding opportunity supports one statewide grantee that will serve as a central resource hub for regional health systems contractors funded under Component A. The program’s overarching goal is to improve the delivery and implementation of tobacco use disorder (TUD) treatment across New York State by providing evidence-based tools, technical assistance, and statewide coordination. Component B will fund a single organization to serve as the Health Systems Improvement (HSI) Center, providing guidance on tobacco control policy, systems, and environmental change. The HSI grantee will develop materials, training resources, and protocols to help regional partners implement the Public Health Service (PHS) Guideline for Treating Tobacco Use and Dependence. This includes strategies like tobacco user screening systems, provider training and support, and the integration of dedicated staff for cessation services. The HSI grantee will also take the lead on addressing emerging industry challenges such as the marketing of e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products to healthcare systems. The program prioritizes interventions with large-scale impact and promotes collaboration with statewide entities, including medical associations, Medicaid managed care plans, and mental health and addiction service providers. The HSI grantee will be expected to coordinate regional efforts, engage in direct communication with Component A contractors, and participate in regular program meetings. Deliverables include regional support of system change (40%), statewide system change (40%), addressing emerging nicotine delivery issues (10%), and sustainability-focused educational activities (10%). Eligible applicants are New York-based public or private not-for-profit organizations with demonstrated expertise in health systems-level change, policy development, and implementation. Applicants must be prequalified in the New York Statewide Financial System (SFS) and must attest to being free from any relationship with tobacco companies. Subcontracting is allowed, but the lead agency must retain over 50% of the work. At least one full-time equivalent (FTE) Program Lead is required, with budget allocations for required travel, training, and professional development. Applications must be submitted electronically via the SFS portal by December 12, 2025, at 4:00 PM ET. Applicants must follow the revised instructions issued in Addendum #3, including entering “TBD” in system-required fields. Awards are expected to begin on May 1, 2026, and continue through April 30, 2031. This is a recurring, multi-year opportunity supporting strategic coordination of statewide tobacco cessation systems and counteraction of tobacco industry disinformation in the healthcare sector.

Demonstrate leadership in health systems policy; detail coordination methods with Component A partners; show experience with tobacco control