The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) published a rule today that would form a negotiated rulemaking committee that will be charged with looking at the methodologiy and criteria of how Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSA) and Medically Underserved Populations (MUP) are designated. HPSA and MUP designations are necessary for certain federal programs including the National Health Service Corps (federal healthcare provider loan forgiveness program), federally certified Rural Health Clinics (RHC), and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid (CMS) Medicare Incentive Program, which provides higher reimbursement rates for physician services delivered in a HPSA. HPSA and MUP methodologies date back to the 1970’s and HRSA has unsuccessfully attempted to change these methodologies previously.

The public is able to comment on this rule no later than 5pm(EST) June 10th. The rule has 12 specific questions regarding HPSA and MUP designation & methodology that the public may comment on (See page 26169; Part B). In addition, this rule seeks to create a Negotiated Rulemaking Committee whose task is focused on coming to a consensus on new methodologies and criteria for HPSA and MUP designation (Also page 26169. part III).

CRHC will be working with the state’s Primary Care Office and the Primary Care Association (Colorado Community Health Network) on this rule and any comments that are submitted.