ARIZONA HEALTHCARE FORUMJULY 21-22, 2011

PHOENIX, AZ

RURAL HEALTH CLINICS 101

RHC 101 Objectives

Define a Rural Health Clinic

Identify the Specific Requirements

Indicate Advantages of Provider-Based Designation

Identify Disadvantages of Provide-Based Designation

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Definition of a RHC

Established through Public Law 95-210, the Rural Health Clinic Services Act, 1977, to increase the provision of primary care services for Medicare and Medicaid patients residing in rural communities.

RHC can be provider-based or freestanding (public, private, or not-for-profit)

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Requirements for a RHC Staffed with a mid-level practitioner

practicing at least 50% of the time

Provide basic laboratory services

Develop written clinical protocols and operational policies and procedures

Conduct an annual evaluation

Gain certification by Medicare

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RHC Shortage Area Location Requirements

Must be in a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA), Geographic Primary Care or by Population Group

Must be in a Medically Underserved Area (MUA)

Possible Governor designation

Designation must be less than 3 years old

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Advantages of Provider-Based Designation

Potential of significant higher reimbursement (looking at all payors in the aggregate)

Increased coordination between hospital and physicians

Increased clinical integration with hospital

Greater flexibility in financing and efficiencies with administration and shared staff

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Potential Disadvantages of Provider-Based Designation

Increased costs related to hospital wage and benefits

More facility costs

Less effective cost management

Decreased physician control of practice staff

Less control of financial accountability and productivity

Upcoming Event for More Info

MARK YOU CALENDAR NOW

Webinar Series – Issues in Rural Health Planning

Thursday, July 21, 2011, 1:00-2:00 pm

Understand the Pros and Cons of Rural Health Clinics

Questions + ADHS/RHO Contacts

Tracy Lenartz, ADHS Consultant

Joyce Hospodar, Senior Program Coordinator hospodar@u.arizona.edu; 520.626.2432

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