Rural Health Clinics

A Rural Health Clinic is a clinic located in a rural area designated as a shortage area. It may not exist as a rehabilitation agency or function primarily as a care and treatment facility for mental diseases. Rural Health Clinics are not state licensed nor are they accredited. They may be certified to participate in the federal Medicare Program.

Medicare Information

The Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) directs state health agencies or other appropriate agencies to determine if health care entities meet federal standards. This helping function is termed "provider certification." Health Facility Compliance Group staff is responsible for certifying Rural Health Clinics. For more information on the certification process, refer to Rules/Regulation link on right-hand side menu box or contact your zone office. See the City-Region-Zone List to find your appropriate zone office.

Audit Tool

The audit tool is provided for use by your facility in preparation for a Medicare certification survey. We suggest you conduct an audit of your facility’s compliance to federal standards prior to the scheduled or unannounced survey.

• Rural Health Clinic Federal Audit Tool. Word File 128KB, 8 pgs.

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Texas Department of State Health Services, Health Facillity Licensing Program
1100 West 49th Street - Austin, Texas 78756 - (512) 834-6646

Last Updated June 5, 2006