Tip 17:
Know the Score When Using the NHSC for Recruitment

When the NHSC makes awards to our applicants, we prioritize applications based on the need of the practice site where the clinician is—or will be—employed. Need is determined by using the HPSA (health professional shortage area) designation score. Communities with the highest HPSA scores have a better chance of recruiting NHSC Scholars or Loan Repayors, so be sure to get to know the scoring process. A low score doesn’t mean the NHSC can’t help you. Any NHSC member can post a vacancy that will be seen on the NHSC Web site by thousands of health professionals looking to work in underserved areas.

Additionally, your HPSA score makes your clinic eligible for a number of Federal programs that can help. Funding from 34 Federal programs—such as professional training,Medicaid/Medicare reimbursement, and federally–Qualified Health Center status—is based on your HPSA designation.

Next Tip