Colorado Health Service Corps Calls for Applications, Launches New Website

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:  Vanessa Bernal | [email protected]

DENVER (September 19, 2023) – The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is currently accepting applications for the Colorado Health Service Corps – a program that offers crucial loan repayment assistance to eligible health care professionals who pledge to serve in Health Professional Shortage Areas. These areas are characterized by a pronounced need for expanded primary health care resources. 

To aid in those efforts, the department recently launched coloradohealthservicecorps.org, a dedicated website to make it easier for health care professionals to learn more and apply. The Colorado Health Service Corps application window opens biannually in March and September, with the current cycle closing on September 30.

"Colorado Health Service Corps improves access to primary health care services in every corner of the state by assisting clinical professionals with their student loan debt in exchange for supporting the health care needs of underserved communities,” said Stephen Holloway, director of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment’s Health Access Branch. “Communities, clinicians, and the state all win when we can match dedicated professionals to communities that need their care through the right incentives." The Colorado Health Service Corps serves as a crucial conduit, matching qualified clinicians with opportunities that resonate with their aspirations, ultimately enhancing Colorado residents' health and overall well-being.

The program offers up to $120,000 for a three-year commitment to address clinician shortages while serving Coloradans who are medically underserved. Eligible health care professionals span diverse fields, such as doctors, clinical pharmacists, dentists, psychologists, social workers, counselors, nurse-midwives, nurse practitioners, advanced practice nurses, physician assistants, psychiatric nurse specialists, addiction counselors, and dental professionals. It also supports geriatric specialists and those pursuing substance use disorder licensure after their clinical training.

The Colorado Health Service Corps began in 2009, with over 1,800 licensed clinicians having participated, delivering 3.7 million visits to those in need. With 540+ sites approved to participate in the Colorado Health Service Corps, including rural and frontier locations, the program helps improve equitable access to care across Colorado. The program has awarded $74.3 million in loan repayments since its inception and continues to successfully attract more talent to address health care disparities. Notably, 81% of Colorado Health Service Corps participants serve individuals who are uninsured or publicly insured, emphasizing their crucial role in promoting equitable health care access.

For additional information about the Colorado Health Service Corps, including eligibility requirements, the application process, site certification, and other resources, visit coloradohealthservicecorps.org.