EMS-CONNECT — the EMS Coordinated Network for Emergency Navigation, Community Care, and Telehealth — is a proposed statewide rural EMS transformation initiative being submitted for funding consideration through the federal Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) by the Arkansas Ambulance Association (ARAA). The initiative is designed to modernize frontline EMS operations across Arkansas through deployment of advanced telehealth capability, interoperable communications infrastructure, connected care technology, and coordinated patient data systems focused on improving healthcare access in rural and frontier communities. This document outlines the proposed Year-One funding request, including the anticipated allocation methodology, major investment categories, operational priorities, statewide infrastructure components, and key implementation considerations.

This funding opportunity is open to all eligible EMS providers serving the identified eligible counties, regardless of whether they are members of the Arkansas Ambulance Association; membership is not required to apply, receive an award, or participate in EMS-CONNECT. Membership status will not be used as an eligibility criterion or provide an advantage in the review process.