A Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) provides primary care services to underserved areas and those that are uninsured or homeless. Funding is received for these services through the HRSA Health Center Program. To achieve status as a Federally Qualified Health Center, a facility must operate under a governing board and offer a sliding fee scale, dependent on the individual's ability to pay.
Healthcare facilities that typically fall within the guidelines include homeless health centers, community health centers, rural health centers, and those that serve residents of public housing.
What Qualifies an FQHC?
There are several requirements that must be met before a health center can receive FQHC status and funding. These include the following:
Federally Qualified Health Center Funding
As federally-recognized organizations, FQHCs are able to obtain funding under Section 330 of the Public Health Service (PHS) Act. Additional funding options are also available, including up to $650,000 startup and access to other federal grants.
FQHC Advantages
Because FQHCs serve a wide variety of individuals, many government programs are available. For instance, prescription and non-prescription medications can be difficult for those in underserved areas to access. FQHCs are eligible to purchase these drugs under the 340B Federal Drug Pricing Program for outpatients in their care. Other vital programs Federally Qualified Health Centers have access to include:
Interested?
Agree with our point of view? Become our client!
Did you enjoy this read? Feel free to share it with your contacts.
