HRSA is the Health Resources and Services Administration. They are an agency of the Federal Government. The Federal government provides nationwide free-clinic care through the Health Services Resource Administration (http://ask.hrsa.gov/pc/ ). The locations for each of these clinics can be found at the link and most provide Primary Medical, Obstetrical and Gynecological, Dental, Mental Health and Substance Abuse services through the clinics. Many physicians who finish their residencies and have large loans to pay back will work for HRSA Clinics for a period of time and in addition to a salary, the Federal government will pay off all or a large portion of their medical school loan. So, in general, you will receive good quality care from well trained physicians at the HSRA clinics. To meet the Federal government’s definition of a clinic, the facility must meet the following test of physician participation: The medical services of the clinic are provided by a group of three or more physicians practicing medicine together; and a physician is present in the clinic at all times during hours of operation to perform medical services.



Ruthann Russo, PhD, JD, MPH, RHIT, is a healthcare expert with more than 20 years of experience working in and advising healthcare organizations.



