The HPSA designation is one factor used to determine eligibility for a number of programs that improve access to healthcare. Medicare also awards bonus payments to primary medical care physicians and psychiatrists working in designated HPSAs. Similarly, the MUA/MUP designation is used as a basis for awarding grants to community health centers.
The Negotiated Rulemaking Committee’s report was just shy of a 100 percent consensus; therefore Secretary Sebelius is not bound to the committee’s recommendations though she can use the report as a basis to pen an interim rule, according to the report.
Read the committee’s recommendations here.
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Sens. Roberts and Barrasso Introduce Bill to Improve Rural Healthcare
