Program increases incentives to practice primary care in shortage areas

Primary care providers who commit to practicing two years in a health professional shortage area can initially receive up to $75,000 in loan repayment under the National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program, $25,000 more than previously and the first significant increase in 30 years, the Health Resources and Services Administration announced April 4. Participants who extend their service beyond two years can receive additional funding under the program. HRSA also will offer up to $5,000 in additional loan repayment to participants who can demonstrate fluency in Spanish and commit to practice in a high-need area serving patients with limited English proficiency.

“We know the importance of having a culturally competent and consistent source of primary care for improving health and wellness, managing chronic diseases and prescriptions, and coordinating across care teams,” said HRSA Administrator Carole Johnson. “Yet, too often in rural communities and historically underserved communities, primary care remains difficult to access. That is why we are increasing our incentives to encourage primary care providers to practice in high need communities by paying a greater share of their educational loans.”

Applications to participate in this year’s program are available through May 9 at 7:30 p.m. ET.