§ 62.8 What does an individual have to do in return for the scholarship program award?

(a) General. Except as provided in paragraphs (d), (f), and (g) of this section, each participant is obligated to (1) become a member of the National Health Service Corps employed as a Commissioned Officer in the Regular or Reserve Corps of the Service or as a Federal civilian in the full-time clinical practice of the participant's profession and (2) serve in the health manpower shortage area to which the participant is assigned by the National Health Service Corps.

(b) Beginning of service. (1) The period of obligated service will begin when the Scholarship Program participant begins to provide services in the health manpower shortage area to which he or she is assigned by the Secretary. Except for those participants who receive a deferral under § 62.9 (a) or (b), this assignment will be made by the Secretary as soon as possible following: (i) the completion of the participant's course of study leading to a degree in medicine, osteopathy, dentistry, or an equivalent credential for a particular health profession, and (ii) appointment of the participant as a Commissioned Officer in the Regular or Reserve Corps of the Service or as a civilian member of the National Health Service Corps.