What percentage of providers in RHCs must be mid-level practitioners to receive added incentives?

In a Rural Health Clinic (RHC), the requirement is that at least 50% of the providers must be mid-level practitioners for the clinic to qualify for specific added incentives. Mid-level practitioners typically include physician assistants (PAs) and nurse practitioners (NPs), who play crucial roles in expanding access to healthcare services in rural and underserved areas.

This percentage reflects a recognition of the important roles these practitioners have in delivering care where there may be a shortage of physicians. By ensuring that a substantial proportion of the workforce in RHCs consists of mid-level practitioners, the incentive program aims to encourage these clinics to enhance their staffing model, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and increased access to care for communities in need.

Understanding this threshold is essential for PAs and other healthcare providers who are engaged in the administration of rural health services, as it directly impacts funding and operational strategies within RHCs.