New York is betting big on student loan forgiveness to close gaps in health care access, especially for Medicaid members and uninsured patients.
Governor Kathy Hochul on Tuesday launched a new Health Care Access Loan Repayment program, a $48.3 million initiative designed to attract and keep health care professionals in underserved communities across the state.
The program, known as HEALR, offers up to $300,000 in student loan forgiveness for providers who commit to serving high-need populations. State officials say workforce shortages continue to limit access to care, even for New Yorkers who already have health insurance.
How the program works
HEALR provides loan repayment to psychiatrists, primary care physicians, dentists, nurse practitioners, and pediatric clinical nurse specialists who make a four-year, full-time commitment to serve Medicaid members or uninsured patients.
Eligible providers must work at a practice or organization where at least 30 percent of patients are covered by Medicaid or lack insurance. Organizations connected to state-designated Social Care Networks also qualify.
Maximum awards vary by profession. Psychiatrists can receive up to $300,000, dentists and primary care physicians up to $100,000, and nurse practitioners and pediatric clinical nurse specialists up to $50,000.
A response to workforce shortages
State leaders say the program builds on earlier efforts to strengthen the health care workforce. In late 2024, New York launched the Career Pathways Training program using $646 million in federal funding to cover tuition and training costs for health and social care workers who commit to serving Medicaid members.
That program has already enrolled nearly 12,000 participants. Combined with HEALR, the two initiatives represent nearly $700 million in workforce investments aimed at improving access to care statewide.
Application timeline and eligibility
Applications for the HEALR program are now open. Individual providers may apply directly, or approved employers may submit up to five applications on behalf of staff.
Employer applications close March 31, while individual applications close April 15. Awards are expected to be announced in late summer.
State officials say awards are limited and encourage eligible providers to apply as soon as possible.
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