Missouri 2023 Regular Session

Missouri House Bill HB542

Introduced
1/4/23  
Refer
2/23/23  
Report Pass
3/23/23  
Refer
3/23/23  
Report Pass
4/3/23  
Refer
4/14/23  
Report Pass
4/18/23  
Engrossed
4/20/23  

Caption

Creates provisions relating to a health professional loan repayment program

Impact

If enacted, HB 542 would significantly impact state laws related to healthcare workforce requirements and extend the legislative framework supporting health professional training and retention. By offering financial incentives for loan repayment, the bill would attract a diverse range of medical professionals to areas that struggle to recruit and retain health workers. The anticipated outcome of increased staffing levels in these regions could lead to improved health outcomes for residents, as timely access to care plays a crucial role in health management.

Summary

House Bill 542 proposes to create a health professional loan repayment program aimed at addressing the shortage of healthcare providers in the state. The bill includes provisions to forgive a portion of loan debt for health professionals who work in underserved areas, thereby incentivizing more medical practitioners to serve communities in need. The plan seeks to ensure a steady supply of healthcare providers, particularly in rural and low-income urban regions where access to medical services is often limited. This initiative is tied to broader workforce development goals for the state's healthcare system.

Sentiment

The sentiment toward HB 542 has generally been favorable, with a wide array of stakeholders recognizing the potential benefits of addressing healthcare access issues. Supporters, including healthcare associations and regional medical boards, view the program as a necessary step to remedy the healthcare provider shortage. Nonetheless, some concerns were raised about the possible limits on the pool of eligible participants or the administrative processes required to manage the repayment program effectively.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 542 include discussions on the criteria for selecting eligible healthcare professionals and the regions that would benefit most from the program. Some legislators expressed concerns about ensuring equity in access to the loan repayment incentives, suggesting that certain demographic factors and service types may need to be prioritized. Additionally, there was debate around the sustainability of funding such a program long-term and whether the financial burden could outweigh the anticipated benefits.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MO HB2282

Modifies provisions relating to the health professional student loan repayment program

MO HB366

Modifies provisions relating to the health professional student loan repayment program

MO HB889

Modifies provisions relating to the health professional student loan repayment program

MO HB1898

Modifies provisions relating to the health professional student loan repayment program

MO HB2517

Modifies provisions relating to the health professional student loan repayment program

MO HB720

Modifies provisions relating to a loan repayment program for health care professionals

MO HB1534

Loan repayment programs; creates program for mental health professionals.

MO HB37

Loan repayment programs; creates program for mental health professionals.

MO HB1300

Modifies provisions relating to the health professional student loan repayment program

MO SB299

Relating To Loan Repayment For Healthcare Professionals.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.