As you contemplate your career choices, please know that Connecticut is taking a groundbreaking step to enhance healthcare in underserved communities while providing significant financial relief to healthcare workers burdened by student loans. The newly announced Connecticut Student Loan Repayment Program is set to transform the healthcare landscape by incentivizing eligible healthcare providers to serve in areas that need them the most.

This innovative program offers up to $50,000 in student loan repayments for healthcare professionals who commit to practicing full-time in underserved Connecticut communities for at least two years. For those opting to work part-time, the program provides up to $12,500 per year over two years, totaling $25,000. This substantial financial incentive applies to federal and private student loan debt, broadening the scope of eligible participants and enhancing the program's appeal.

The list of eligible healthcare professions is extensive, ensuring that a wide range of services can be provided to underserved areas. Healthcare jobs included in this new statewide initiative are:

MDs and DOs specializing in Family Practice, General Practice, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, and OB/GYN
Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (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**, such as Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, Licensed Professional Counselors, and Substance Use Disorder Counselors
Pharmacists

This remarkable initiative is poised to recruit and retain new healthcare workers, alleviate the financial burdens of these vital professionals, and significantly reduce health disparities across Connecticut. It's a win-win for healthcare providers and residents alike.

Applications for the Connecticut Student Loan Repayment Program will open tomorrow, on Wednesday.