Steven M. Thompson Physician Corps Loan Repayment Program

Overview

STLRP was established in 2003 to increase access to healthcare and promote the retention of primary care physicians in medically underserved areas (MUAs) of California. The program is counseled by an advisory committee of seven members, with two members appointed by the California Medical Association. Physicians and surgeons can receive up to $105,000 in exchange for providing direct patient care in a MUA for a minimum of three years. Since its inception, STLRP has received more than 1,228 applications. The program has awarded more than $47 million and monitored the progress of 538 physicians providing direct patient care in 47 of California’s 58 counties. Consistent with the intent of the program, 80 percent of the total recipients are certified in a primary care specialty.  The program...