FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

CONFERENCE INFORMATION

Why is the National Health Service Corps (NHSC) holding this conference? This conference is being held to (1) welcome Scholars into the placement/service cycle of their NHSC commitment, (2) provide orientation and training opportunities, (3) provide opportunities for NHSC Scholars to network, (4) emphasize the importance of cultural competency when caring for culturally diverse populations, and (5) provide resources to help make your service to the underserved a fulfilling experience.

What topics will be discussed at the conference?

Conference topics may include, but will not be limited to (in no particular order):

Tracking and Monitoring Scholars: What You Need to Know Cultural Competence Mental Health Issues in Primary Care

Oral Health/Primary Care Taking Care of You Networking Opportunities Understanding Contracts Résumé Writing Interviewing Techniques

What is the attire for the conference?

General conference attire is business casual.

Recruitment Fair attire is business dress.

REGISTRATION

Am I eligible for complimentary registration?

If you are in good standing with NHSC, you are tentatively approved when you register. However, final approval must come from NHSC (see Approval Process).

What is involved in the approval process?

During the approval process, the names of registrants are submitted to NHSC for approval. Travel (air, rail, or mileage for personally owned vehicle) to and from the meeting, including ground transportation, as well as lodging (room and tax only) and meals will be provided for approved NHSC Scholars. Registration confirmation and detailed travel arrangement information will be provided via e-mail.

How long does the approval process take?

Approximately 2 to 3 business days, depending on the registration date.

ATTENDANCE

What day and time do I need to arrive?

Upon approval by NHSC, you should plan to arrive at the hotel by 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 31.

When does the conference conclude?

The conference is scheduled to conclude at 5:00 p.m. on August 2.

Who is invited to attend the conference?

• All Scholars who will complete their approved training by September 30, 2009, and who will be eligible to begin the job interview process.
  
  
• All Scholars who have or will have completed their approved training by September 30, 2008, who have not matched to a site and who have not attended a Scholar Orientation Conference.
  
  
• NHSC clinicians who can share their experiences and strategies for working with our nation's most vulnerable populations.

Is attendance required or mandatory?

Attendance is highly recommended to support and benefit you in your site-selection process.

Once you are registered, you are expected to fully participate in all conference sessions.

TRAVEL COSTS AND REIMBURSEMENT

What is included in travel costs?

Travel costs include air, rail, or mileage for your personally owned vehicle to and from the meeting, including ground transportation and lodging (room and tax only).

Are you expecting Scholars to pay for travel costs in advance and then be reimbursed?

Participants will be required to pay for their ground transportation (taxi, shuttle) in advance. These costs will be reimbursed after the conference, up to a maximum dollar amount as specified in the confirmation materials.

Who will make reservations and how will they be paid?

Travel reservations for approved participants will be made through our travel agent. Lodging (room and tax only) will be prepaid for the approved nights through B L Seamon Corporation. Detailed information will be forwarded upon approval from NHSC.

Why do you need my credit card information if you are paying for lodging?

The credit card information is required only to guarantee your lodging and will cover your room for late arrival. For no-shows, a fee will be charged to the credit card by the hotel.

If I need to make a change to my hotel reservation, whom should I contact?

Participants are required to contact BLS immediately up until July 28 if they need to make a change to their hotel reservation. Please do not contact the hotel directly before July 28.  After July 28, you may contact the hotel directly.