Program Integrity

PQA Program

Participation in the Payment Quality Assurance (PQA) Program is required as a condition of receiving universal service support. When selected, Rural Health Care beneficiaries have 10 business days from the date of the first notification letter to gather and submit the materials requested for carrying out the payment assessment. PQA participants from the Rural Health Care Program will have to submit formal confirmation that they have received and utilized goods and/or services associated with the payment being assessed as well as their eligibility under Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules for such receipt and use. The time required to produce documents will vary, depending on the volume, complexity, and accessibility of documents requested. In most cases, it should take hours, not days, of participants' staff time.

PQA processors are available by phone to assist participants with understanding and fulfilling program requirements. A unique case number, assigned by USAC, is also included in the letter for you to associate all documents and communications related to the assessment. Within 90 days of submitting materials, participants should receive results of their specific assessment.