AN ACT RELATING TO HEALTH AND SAFETY -- THE MEDICAL PRIMARY CARE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

This bill establishes the Medical Primary Care Scholarship Program in Rhode Island to address a shortage of healthcare providers by offering financial aid to students pursuing careers in primary care. Administered by the Commissioner of Postsecondary Education, the program provides up to $70,000 annually for medical students and $47,000 annually for nurse practitioner or physician assistant students, with a limit of five new awards per category each year. To receive these funds, applicants must maintain excellent academic standing and agree to work full-time in primary care within the state for two years after completing their education and licensing. The legislation also allows the commissioner to create a nonprofit organization to manage the program's administrative services and set specific selection criteria to ensure diversity and commitment to the state.