Chapter 7 – Coverage for Medical Emergencies during and After-Hours of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Health Center Compliance Manual requires the health center to have clearly defined arrangements in place for promptly responding to patient medical emergencies after the health center’s normal business hours. 

As part of the OSV process, a test-call is placed to the after-hours line to ensure the health center provides continuous access to care, even after normal business hours.  The call evaluates the after-hours system’s ability to respond to emergencies, provide access to qualified personnel, and ensure the availability of services for patients with Limited English Proficiency (LEP). The HRSA Health Center Program Compliance Manual (Chapter 7- Coverage for Medical Emergencies – Health Center Compliance Manual)  and HRSA Health Center Program Site Visit Protocol (Coverage for Medical Emergencies – Health Center Site Visit Protocol) do not provide specific guidance regarding when the test call will be placed, as health centers are expected to maintain continuous compliance; therefore, the timing of the call is flexible and can occur at any time when the health center is closed, either during the OSV or in the weeks prior.