Healthcare Student Loan Repayment Program Launched

Connecticut launched a new student loan repayment program May 20 targeting the state’s healthcare workforce shortage. 

The Connecticut Student Loan Repayment Program offers up to $50,000 in student loan repayments to eligible healthcare providers.

To qualify, providers must commit to practicing full-time in underserved communities in the state for at least two years. 

There is also a part-time option of $12,500 per year over two years, totaling $25,000.

‘Significant Investment’

“This program is a significant investment in our healthcare workforce and a step towards reducing health disparities across our state,” said Gov. Ned Lamont. 

“We recognize that not all providers can commit to full-time work, so we’re offering flexible options to attract a wider range of talent to our underserved communities.”

The program is being funded with $11.6 million from the American Rescue Plan Act, and nearly $2 million from the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration. 

“We can make significant progress in improving health outcomes for all Connecticut residents.

DPH’s Dr. Manisha Juthani

The Department of Public Health will oversee the program, and the Connecticut Area Health Education Center will administer it.

The center works to improve access to healthcare by linking community groups with health professionals and programs. 

“By incentivizing healthcare providers to practice in underserved areas, we can make significant progress in improving health outcomes for all Connecticut residents,” said DPH Commissioner Dr. Manisha Juthani.

Program Details

The Lamont administration said the program is different from the federal programs that only apply to federal student loans. 

People can repay both federal and private student loan debt through the Connecticut program.

Eligible providers include: 

• MDs and DOs in family practice, general practice, internal medicine, pediatrics, OB/GYN
• APRNs, including certified nurse midwives, nurse practitioners, and psychiatric nurse specialists
• Physician assistants
• Registered nurses
• Dentists and dental hygienists
• Psychiatrists, psychologists, and core behavioral health providers, including licensed clinical social workers, licensed marriage and family therapists, licensed professional counselors, and substance use disorder counselors
• Pharmacists

Addressing Shortages

Dr. Stacy Taylor, a family practice physician, University of Connecticut School of Medicine instructor, and current Connecticut State Medical Society president said Connecticut ranks 48th out of 52 states and territories in retaining physicians that are trained here.

“Despite some of the best resident training programs in the U.S., we are unable to keep the talent that we train our state,” she said.

“We must do more to make sure Connecticut is a place where physicians want to live and practice.” 

#Connecticut is launching a new #studentloan repayment program to tackle the state’s #healthcare #workforce shortage. @pamarone49 tells @1490WGCH it will help keep "really good people in our state, working in our state, and giving back to our community.” https://t.co/ADZzMpac5A

— CBIA (@CBIANews) May 23, 2024

Lamont said he hopes the program will highlight opportunities for medical professionals in underserved areas and areas with critical shortages. 

“Connecticut’s healthcare industry has been significantly impacted by the workforce shortage, notably in disadvantaged areas of our state,” said CBIA’s Paul Amarone.

“Incentivizing qualified healthcare employees to make an impact in their communities through this program is a winner for both workforce development, and the overall health and well-being of Connecticut residents.”

Applications are open now. Information and more details about the program are available online.