The South Dakota Department of Health opens the application period for the State Loan Repayment Program on Oct. 1.
The three-year program is designed to improve access to health care services by helping underserved communities recruit and retain care providers.
"This program plays a vital role in strengthening health care access to rural South Dakota by providing essential support to health care providers," said Melissa Magstadt, Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Health. "By offering loan repayment assistance, we are not only helping providers reduce their financial burdens and fill workforce gaps but also ensuring underserved communities have access to the quality care they deserve. It's a win-win for both our workforce and our communities."
Eligible disciplines include physician, dentist, dental hygienist, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, health service psychologist, licensed clinical social worker, psychiatric nurse specialist, licensed professional counselor, marriage and family therapist, registered nurse, pharmacist, and alcohol/substance abuse counselor.
Each year, the DOH awards eligible health care professionals with student loan reimbursements in exchange for a two-year service commitment at an eligible health care practice site in a Health Professional Shortage Area in South Dakota.
The DOH will review applications on a first-come, first served basis and the application window closes Oct. 31.
For more information about the program and eligibility requirements, visit the DOH website.