Although Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) are not technically required to post after-hours signage on the front door, they are required to have a clearly defined and accessible mechanism in place for informing patients about how to access services outside of normal business hours. This requirement is outlined in Chapter 7 – Coverage for Medical Emergencies During and After Hours, of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Health Center Program Compliance Manual and the HRSA Site Visit Protocol. 

The health center must ensure patients are provided with information on how to obtain care after hours, and this information must be easily accessible to patients, as well as available in languages and health literacy levels appropriate to the health center’s patient population. 

Posting signage on the front door is one effective way to meet this requirement, particularly for walk-in patients or individuals arriving after hours; however, other acceptable mechanisms include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Signage in the lobby and throughout other areas of the health center; 
• New Patient Packets and other patient handouts and brochures;
• Verbal information provided during visits;
• Website postings; and
• Patient portals or mobile apps.

While front-door signage is not mandated, it is one of the easiest and most effective ways to communicate critical information to patients. Signage of any kind is strongly recommended as part of a comprehensive communication strategy to ensure patients are fully informed of their after-hours care options. In addition to keeping current patients informed, clear and visible signage has the potential to expand access to care by reaching other individuals in the target population who may be unaware of available services.