How to Apply for Site Recertification

We require NHSC-approved sites—except auto-approved NHSC sites—to submit a Site Recertification Application every three years. Sites eligible for auto-approval can request to become approved at any time.

How to prepare for site recertification

Start by reviewing the NHSC Site Agreement (PDF - 291 KB) and the Site Reference Guide (PDF - 672 KB).

These documents help you understand:

• What you need to be eligible for NHSC approval
• Required information and documents
• The site recertification process

NHSC site application sections and required documents

The NHSC site application contains 11 sections, and site applicants must provide the required documents and information depending on their site type. For a list of required documents by site type, visit the “Apply to Become an NHSC Site” page and refer to the documents table under Section Ten: Upload Documents.

If a required document/item is missing, we will consider the application incomplete and may not approve it, including:

• Behavioral health supporting documents
• Clinician recruitment and retention plan
• Policies on non-discrimination
• Proof of access to comprehensive care documents
• Sliding fee discount program documents
  • Policy
  • Patient application
  • Sliding fee schedule
  • Posted signage
    • Two photographs
    • Screenshot and link to published online statement
• Substance Use Disorder (SUD) or Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) documents (if providing these services)

How to submit an NHSC site recertification application

Follow these steps in the Bureau of Health Workforce (BHW) Customer Service Portal:

1. Log into the BHW Program Portal during an open recertification cycle.
2. Under “My Sites,” select the site name.
3. Select the option to apply for recertification.
4. Start the NHSC Site Recertification Application.

The NHSC Site Recertification follows the same steps as the NHSC New Site Application.

For help navigating the portal, use the Site Points of Contact User Guide (PDF - 5 MB).

Remember: You can only submit a recertification application if your site:

• Is currently active
• Has an upcoming expiration date
• Completes the application during an open site recertification cycle