Provides for loan forgiveness for physicians who return to medical specialty shortage areas of origin

BILL NUMBER:S2771

Title of bill

An act to amend the public health law, in relation to providing an educational loan forgiveness program to physicians who return to a physician shortage area of origin

Purpose

To provide an incentive for students to study medicine and return to underserved areas to practice.

Summary of specific provisions

Section one of the bill adds definitions of designated physician shortage areas and specialty areas.

Section two adds the physicians returning to shortage areas loan forgiveness program. To be eligible a participant must have lived in any shortage area for at least two years. The education loan forgiveness program award may be up to $15,000 per year for up to five years. If the recipient fails to comply with the provisions of the program the money awarded must be returned.

Section three establishes the effective date for the legislation.

Justification

There are serious health professional shortages in rural areas and some inner city areas in New York State. This bill is aimed at attracting students who already live in underserved areas to study medicine and then return to their shortage area. Studies have shown that these physicians are more likely to stay for a longer time in their original home than those who are recruited from elsewhere.

Legislative history

S.2879 of 2009: Referred to Health S.475 of 2007: Passed Senate in 2008 S.3422 of 2005: Referred to Health

Fiscal implications

There would be a small impact on tax revenues to the state with this program. The total amount would depend on how many physicians participate in the program.

Effective date

The effective date shall take effect 180 days after it has been signed into law.