What is the difference between a HPSA and a Governors Medically Underserved Population Designation?
Under the provisions of Public law 99-280, enacted in 1986, a population group which does not meet the established criteria of an IMU less than 62.0 can nevertheless be considered for designation if “unusual local conditions which are a barrier to access to or the availability of personal health services” exist and are documented, and if such a designation is recommended by the chief executive officer and local officials of the State where the requested population resides. These areas are not eligible for RHC certification. Requests for designation under these exceptional procedures should describe in detail the unusual local conditions/access barriers/availability indicators which led to the recommendation for exceptional designation and include any supporting data. Such requests must also include a written recommendation for designation from the Governor or other chief executive officer of the State (or State-equivalent) and local health official.
