ABOUT US
What is the National Association of Rural Health Clinics (NARHC)?
The National Association of Rural Health Clinics (NARHC) strives to improve quality, cost-effective health care in rural and underserved areas. The Rural Health Clinics Program (RHC Program) is the means. NARHC works with Congress, federal agencies, and rural health allies. We promote, expand, and protect the interests of clinics in the RHC Program. NARHC members become actively engaged in the legislative and regulatory process through the Association. What is a Rural Health Clinic?
The Rural Health Clinics Program (RHC Program) was developed in response to unmet needs. The target population is Medicare and Medicaid recipients living in underserved areas of rural America. In the RHC Program, the federal government crafted a plan to encourage PAs, NPs, and physicians to practice together in rural areas. Today, Rural Health Clinics comprise an integral part of health care delivery systems. Over 4413 federally certified RHCs provide primary care services to 7 million+ people in 47 states. NARHC serves as an important advocate for the policy needs of Rural Health Clinics.
Why is NARHC so Important for You?
NARHC is a vital link between health clinics and federal legislators and regulators. It brings “real world” experience of Rural Health Clinic practice to policy making and policymakers:
- NARHC is unique. There are groups representing rural hospitals, community health centers, and individual practitioners. Only NARHC has the proven track record and demonstrates specific commitment to the RHC program.
- NARHC is responsive. NARHC’s unique and specific focus on the Rural Health Clinics Program, targets its membership’s policy and informational needs, such as current clinic certification guidelines and resources.
- NARHC is respected. The federal government, national media, and rural health community widely respect and recognize NARHC as the leading force in RHC policy. In fact, the federal government consults with NARHC to conduct research and analyze RHC policy.
How Will NARHC Help Your Practice?
In recent years, NARHC advocated to stop misguided, budget-cutting strategies. Such strategies ignored the unique needs and dynamics of underserved, rural populations in America and the clinics that serve them. NARHC continues to advocate on your behalf to eliminate rigid rules that become barriers to RHC certification. Additionally, NARHC advocates on dozens of other issues of interest to RHCs. Our presence in Washington gives you a finger on the pulse of crucial policy activity. Rural Health Clinic policy should not be formulated by Washington insiders. They don’t understand the important services you provide.