A HPSA is a geographic area, population group, or health care facility that has been designated by the Federal government as having a shortage of health professionals.

There are three categories of HPSAs: primary care (shortage of primary care clinicians), dental (shortage of oral health professionals), and mental health (shortage of mental health professionals).

HPSAs are designated using several criteria, including population-to-clinician ratios. This ratio is usually 3,500 to 1 for primary care, 5,000 to 1 for dental health care, and 30,000 to 1 for mental health care.

Learn more about Health Professional Shortage Areas

HPSAs are assigned a numerical score based on the level of need. These scores range from 2 to 26, with 26 being the highest need areas (25 for primary care HPSAs). Find more information on HPSAs, including how to apply, criteria used for designations, and a listing of designated HPSAs by State.