Residency/Postgraduate Training

In the spring of the year of graduation, and each year subsequent year of residency training, all physicians and dentists pursuing approved postgraduate training must request deferments so they may postpone until completion of specialized training their required service in a National Health Service Corps (NHSC)-approved site in a high-need Health Professional Shortage Area.

How to Request a Deferment

To receive a deferment of the service obligation until completion of approved residency training, physicians and dentists must complete and submit the Deferment Request Form each year and receive approval from the NHSC .

Scholars eligible to defer the service obligation (MD, DO, DDS, and DMD students) receive information on deferment during the last year of medical or dental school and are notified when the deferment request form must be submitted.

Scholars in or applying to approved postgraduate training who do not submit the Deferment Request Form each year of residency training may be found in default of the NHSC scholarship service obligation and subject to penalties.

When to Notify the NHSC

After the NHSC has approved your deferment request, please notify us in writing if you

• Fail to obtain a position in the postgraduate training that the NHSC has approved
• Change your address
• Plan to switch residency programs
• Intend to pursue a chief residency position
• Plan to suspend training for maternity leave or other medical or personal reason

Send the notification to:

National Health Service Corps
Division of Scholar and Clinician Support
Parklawn Building Room 8-15
Rockville, MD 20852