HPSA Scores
In addition to determining if your site is NHSC-approved, you can also verify your site’s Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) score using the Health Workforce Connector. HPSA scores are designated by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) as having shortages of primary care medical, dental, or mental health providers.
Keep in mind that each site may have a primary care, dental, and mental health score. You want to pay close attention to the score that matches your discipline. For example, dental hygenists will use the dental HPSA score; physician assistants will use the primary care HPSA score; and licensed clinical social workers will use the mental health HPSA score.
Why are HPSA scores important?
HPSA scores are a key factor in determining who receives an NHSC Loan Repayment Program award. The higher the score, the higher the need for health care professionals. NHSC begins funding eligible participants from sites with the highest HPSA scores. Check out the video below!
What if your site isn't NHSC-approved?
If the site is located in a Federally-designated HPSA, it can submit an NHSC site application to request approval as a service site. The next NHSC site application cycle will open in Spring 2018. For more information, visit the NHSC website.
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