What is the purpose of a federally qualified health center?

A Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) strives to help meet the needs of an underserved area or population. The FQHC provides primary outpatient services and opportunities for employment for the community, often while working to meet community initiatives.

Are Fqhc employees federal employees?

As Federal employees, the employees of qualified health centers are immune from lawsuits. The Federal government acts as their primary insurer.

What is the difference between a community health center and a federally qualified health center?

FQHCs receive federal funding under Section 330 of the U.S. Public Health & Service Act. Community Health Centers provide care to all but are focused on delivering services in areas of clinical shortage – medical, dental and mental health.

What services do federally qualified health centers provide?

What is an FQHC?

• Preventive health services.
• Dental services.
• Mental health and substance abuse services.
• Transportation services necessary for adequate patient care.
• Hospital and specialty care.

How do you qualify for FQHC?

To be a qualified entity in the federal Health Center Program, an organization must:

1. Offer services to all, regardless of the person’s ability to pay.
2. Establish a sliding fee discount program.
3. Be a nonprofit or public organization.

Is a FQHC a federal agency?

A Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) is a reimbursement designation from the Bureau of Primary Health Care and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services of the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

Is an FQHC a federal contractor?

Although not technically federal programs, FQHCs are subject to criteria and rules established by the federal government and effectively function as a hybrid between a state and federal entity. A more detailed explanation of what defines an FQHC is provided by HRSA.

Can you sue FQHC?

Filing suit against an FQHC Health centers must file annual applications with the Department of Health and Human Services to be deemed a federal entity qualified for protection under the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA).

Can an FQHC be for profit?

The mission of FQHCs is to enhance primary care services to the underserved in both urban and rural communities. They operate as non-profit entities under the guidance of a board of directors selected from the community where they operate.

What is the advantage for the nurse practitioner working in a federally qualified health clinic FQHC )?

In addition to the federal government funding, an FQHC clinic also has the following benefits: Enhanced program in Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement. Up to $650,000 in new start money. Coverage in medical malpractice through the Federal Tort Claims Act.

How is a community hospital funded?

Community health centers rely on a combination of Medicaid payments, grant revenues, and other private and public funding sources to fund their operations.

What are federally funded healthcare programs?

The six major government health care programs— Medicare, Medicaid, the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP), the Department of Defense TRICARE and TRICARE for Life programs (DOD TRICARE), the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) program, and the Indian Health Service (IHS) program—provide health care

What positive features or advantages are given for working with a FQHC as a health care provider?

Benefits of FQHC Employment

• Minimal staff management responsibility.
• Limited after-hours calls.
• Paid vacations, paid sick time and paid holidays.
• More regular work hours in a set schedule of 40 hours or less.

What is a 330 grant?

Section 330 of the Public Health Service Act created and authorized the health center program and permits the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to make grants to health centers. Funds from the CHCF now account for 72% of total Section 330 funding.