What's the Difference? Federally Qualified Health Center vs Rural Health Clinic

A common question we receive is "what is the difference between a federally qualified health center(FQHC) and a rural health clinic(RHC)?" Here's the answer:

Basically, they differ in location, services they’re required by the federal government to provide, and how they are paid by the federal government.

Specifically:

1. FQHCs are typically located in urban areas; RHCs are in rural areas (the government defines the areas that constitute rural)
2. FQHCs must be non-profit; RHCs can be for-profit
3. FQHCs must provide preventive services; RHCs only need to offer primary care and lab services
4. FQHCs must offer services at a reduced fee schedule for patients (based on patients’ income); RHCs do not have this requirement

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