Consider rural clinic to enhance care, revenue.

To make health care in underserved rural areas more accessible, Congress established rural health clinics (RHCs) in 1977. Although most RHCs operate independently, a provider-based RHC can help a hospital attract physicians, boost market share through increased referrals, enhance third-party payment, and provide an opportunity for reallocating overhead costs. Proper planning for a provider-based RHC includes carefully considering qualification requirements, staffing strategies, and clinic location.