Alabama § 34-21-97 - Areas of Critical Need.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 34-21-97 — Areas of Critical Need., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 34-21-97. Areas of Critical Need.
(a) An area of critical need, as determined by the board, shall be physically located within this state and shall satisfy one of the following:
(1) Be located within a primary care health professional shortage area (HPSA) for a geographic area, recognized by the Health Resources and Services Administration, or its successor organization, or by the Alabama Office of Primary Care and Rural Health, or its successor organization.
(2) Be a Federally Qualified Health Center or designated Indian Health Service, Tribal Health, and Urban Indian Health Organization located anywhere within the state, with a primary care HPSA score of 14 or more.
(3) Be located within an eligible Alabama Rural Medical Service Awards rural community as defined most recently by the Alabama Office of Primary Care and Rural Health, or its successor organization.
(b) The board shall adopt rules under the Administrative Procedure Act to implement this section.
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 34-21-97
What does Code of Alabama § 34-21-97 cover?
Section 34-21-97 ("Areas of Critical Need.") is part of the Code of Alabama, the codified statutory law of Alabama. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Alabama § 34-21-97?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 34-21-97" (Alabama). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Alabama law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alabama official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alabama attorney.
How does Alabama § 34-21-97 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alabama can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.