NHSC Publications: 2003 Rolling Practice Selection and Assignment Bulletin for Physician Assistants, Certified Nurse-Midwives and Nurse Practitioners

VII. ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS FREQUENTLY ASKED BY NHSC SCHOLARS

Q: The contact at the practice is not responding to the resume I mailed or to my phone inquiries. What can I do?

A: Be sure to follow up with a phone call to the practice contacts after you send resumes. Wait about 1 week after your initial phone inquiry to get a response from the contact. If you don't receive a return call, try once again. If you still have not received a response, please call the NHSC and ask them to assist you in getting a response.

Q: Is there any limit on the number of practices I can interview with during the Practice Selection Phase?

A: No. It is important that travel arrangements be made carefully. The NHSC will reimburse up to a total of $1,500 for actual travel expenses incurred for visits to these locations. If you exceed the allocated amount for site visits, you will be responsible for any excess amounts over the $1,500. It may, however, be possible for you to negotiate with the site to assist in covering the cost of the trip.

PRIOR TO SPENDING ANY MONEY AND MAKING A SITE VISIT, BE SURE THAT THE PRACTICE(S) YOU ARE TRAVELING TO FOR AN INTERVIEW IS ON THE NHSC APPROVED PRACTICE LIST AND THAT THE SITE IS STILL HIRING.

Q: What do I have to do to travel to an approved practice for an interview?

A: Contact the NHSC at least 14 days prior to the scheduled interview to initiate the travel process and to ensure that the practice is still available. Once the appropriate contact has obtained approval from the NHSC, that contact will also guide you regarding the necessary paperwork and process for reimbursement of travel expenses. (More information).

Q: I've been offered employment at an approved practice. What do I do now?

A: Obtain a letter from the practice stating that they are offering you a position. Respond to the practice in writing that you accept the position. Forward copies of both letters to the NHSC. They will be able to give you further guidance. (More information.)

Application for State licensure/certification is also critical. You need to apply immediately upon notification of employment or assignment. You will need to forward a copy of your State license and national certification to the NHSC. You must have at least a temporary license and be in the process of applying for a permanent license before beginning your service commitment at the practice. (More information.)

You will also need to 1) sign a PPA or PPO Agreement and send it to the NHSC or 2) forward a copy of your personnel order/action (applicable to Federal employees) to the NHSC.

Next: Rolling Practice Selection Phase Important Deadline Dates