FQHC Start-Up Checklist: A Step-by-Step Guide for Success | TriumpHealth

Establishing a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) is a complex yet rewarding endeavor that expands access to care in underserved communities. At TriumpHealth, we guide healthcare organizations through every stage of the FQHC start-up process—from planning and compliance to credentialing and revenue cycle management. Below is a comprehensive checklist to help you launch your FQHC with confidence and compliance.

✅Planning & Feasibility

A solid foundation begins with community assessment and strategic validation:

• Conduct a Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA)
• Confirm Medically Underserved Area/Population (MUA/MUP) Designation
• Perform Feasibility Study & Market Analysis

✅ Legal & Governance

Ensure your organization meets federal, state, and IRS requirements:

• Incorporate as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
• Draft Bylaws and Articles of Incorporation
• Establish a Board of Directors (majority community-based)
• Develop Governance Policies and Conflict of Interest Protocols

✅ HRSA Compliance & Application

Fulfill all HRSA and federal health center program prerequisites:

• Review HRSA Compliance Manual
• Complete the HRSA Service Area Competition (SAC) or New Access Point (NAP) Application
• Submit Uniform Data System (UDS) tables
• Demonstrate readiness for operational site visit

✅ Facility Setup & Licensing

Prepare your clinical infrastructure for licensing and patient care:

• Secure a clinic site that meets ADA and safety standards
• Apply for state facility license and CLIA certification
• Ensure fire marshal inspection and local permits are cleared

✅ Financial & Operational Readiness

Develop internal systems for sustainability and regulatory compliance:

• Establish operating budget and financial projections
• Implement accounting software and financial controls
• Develop sliding fee scale and patient billing policies
• Prepare for audits and grant reporting

✅ Provider Enrollment & Credentialing

Credentialing is vital for reimbursement and patient trust:

• Obtain Type 2 NPI and register with PECOS
• Enroll providers with Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial payers
• Set up CAQH profiles and maintain credentialing files

✅ EMR & Billing Infrastructure

Build a billing ecosystem that drives sustainable revenue:

• Select and implement a certified EHR system
• Integrate with clearinghouse and billing software
• Train staff on UDS reporting, 340B program, and FQHC-specific billing codes

✅ Staffing & Workforce Development

Recruit a mission-aligned, community-focused care team:

• Hire medical, behavioral health, and enabling services staff
• Complete background checks and credentialing verifications
• Provide HR onboarding, HIPAA training, and compliance orientation

How TriumpHealth Can Help

TriumpHealth specializes in supporting FQHCs with:

• Full-scope credentialing for medical, dental, and behavioral health providers
• Medicare and Medicaid enrollment support
• Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) with FQHC-specific billing expertise
• MIPS consulting for long-term success

Whether you’re just getting started or scaling your services, our team is ready to support your mission. Transform your practice with smarter solutions — schedule your consultation at 888-747-3836 or [email protected]