§ 491.5 Location of clinic.

(a) Basic requirements. (1) An RHC is located in a rural area that is designated as a shortage area.

(2) An FQHC is located in a rural or urban area that is designated as either a shortage area or an area that has a medically underserved population.

(3) Both the RHC and the FQHC may be permanent or mobile units.

(i) Permanent unit. The objects, equipment, and supplies necessary for the provision of the services furnished directly by the clinic or center are housed in a permanent structure.

(ii) Mobile unit. The objects, equipment, and supplies necessary for the provision of the services furnished directly by the clinic or center are housed in a mobile structure, which has fixed, scheduled location(s).

(iii) Permanent unit in more than one location. If clinic or center services are furnished at permanent units in more than one location, each unit is independently considered for approval as a rural health clinic or for approval as an FQHC.