Highlights: Analysis of the Proposed Rule on Designation of Medically Underserved Populations and Health Professional Shortage Areas

Authors

Peter Shin, George Washington University
Leighton C. Ku, George Washington UniversityFollow
Emily Jones, George Washington UniversityFollow
Sara J. Rosenbaum, George Washington UniversityFollow

Document Type

Report

Publication Date

4-14-2008

Publisher

George Washington University, School of Public Health and Health Services, Department of Health Policy

Keywords

Underserved Populations; Community Health Centers; Health Reform; Health Homes

Abstract

For decades, the federal government has targeted health care funding, resources and staff to meet the health care needs of areas designated as "medically underserved areas" and "health professional shortage areas." Areas that qualify may, for example, receive federal funding to support the establishment and operation of community health centers, or receive National Health Service Corps (NHSC) physicians and clinicians. In addition, physicians who practice in these health shortage areas may receive higher payments under Medicare. These designations thus affect the availability of health care in thousands of urban and rural areas all across the United States. Community health centers provide care for more than 16 million patients.

Comments

Initially issued April 14, 2008; revised May 1, 2008.

Funder: Geiger Gibson/RCHN Community Health Foundation Research Collaborative.

Recommended Citation

Shin, P., Ku, L., Jones, E., & Rosenbaum, S. (2008). Highlights: Analysis of the proposed rule on designation of medically underserved populations and health professional shortage areas. Washington, D.C.: George Washington University, School of Public Health and Health Services, Department of Health Policy.

Open Access

1