The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced Oct. 1 that it will disburse another $20 billion from the CARES Act Provider Relief Fund (PRF). Physicians eligible to apply include those who have already received PRF payments, psychiatrists, and those who began practicing in 2020. The deadline to apply is Nov. 6.

Under the new Phase 3 General Distribution allocation, physicians who have already received PRF payments may apply for additional funding that takes into account financial losses and changes in operating expenses attributable to the COVID-19 pandemic.

HHS also announced that psychiatrists and behavioral health care providers such as addiction counseling centers and mental health counselors are now eligible for funding. The HHS news release noted that anxiety and depression have increased markedly in the U.S. compared with the same quarter last year and that many behavioral health care professionals have invested in telehealth and other technology to meet the increased need during the pandemic.

Other previously ineligible physicians, such as those who began practicing in 2020, will also be eligible to apply for the Phase 3 General Distribution funding through Nov. 6.

Read the HHS news release and learn more about how to apply for the new disbursements here.