The Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit filed a petition on behalf of three women who collectively face $472,000 in penalties from the Service Corps. The petition seeks a rule change that would automatically waive the penalties for healthcare workers terminated by their clinics through no fault of their own and unable to find similar employment within an hour of their home.
“The Department not only hurts Program participants who could not complete their service obligations due to circumstances beyond their control, but also deters future participation by healthcare professionals who have heard of and fear injustice from an unyielding government agency,” the petition said.
Congress authorized the Service Corps in 1980, and in 1987 added a loan-assistance program and granted the health secretary authority to determine whether someone is eligible for a waiver, which would permanently excuse a participant from their obligations.
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
