New York State DOH Announces Applications Open for Healthcare Access Loan Repayment (HEALR) Program

The New York State Department of Health (NYS DOH) Office of Health Insurance Programs (OHIP) has announced that applications are now open for the Healthcare Access Loan Repayment (HEALR) Program, a $48.3 million Medicaid workforce initiative designed to strengthen New York’s health care workforce and support professionals in high-need roles with student loan debt. The program is authorized under New York’s 1115 Demonstration Waiver.

The HEALR Program provides substantial loan repayment awards to eligible health care professionals who commit to serving New York’s Medicaid and uninsured populations. Awardees must complete a four-year, full-time service commitment either by maintaining a personal practice panel or by working for an organization that serves at least 30% Medicaid members and/or uninsured individuals. Organizations contracted with a state-designated Social Care Network and providing health-related social needs screening, referrals, or services also qualify.

Maximum loan repayment awards include:

• Psychiatrists: Up to $300,000

• Dentists and Primary Care Physicians: Up to $100,000

• Nurse Practitioners and Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialists: Up to $50,000

  
  

With a four-year commitment, participating providers can significantly reduce their student debt burden while helping to expand access to quality care for New Yorkers.

The program offers two application pathways:

1. Individual providers may apply directly.

2. Employers approved as service commitment sites may initiate up to five applications on behalf of their staff.

   
   

Applications and full program details are available on the NYS Department of Health’s Healthcare Access Loan Repayment (HEALR) Program webpage.

Key Deadlines:

• Employer applications due: Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.

• Individual applications due: Sunday, February 15, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.

• Award notifications: Expected in late spring 2026

  
  

Because awards are limited, early submission is strongly encouraged.

OHIP will host an informational webinar on Thursday, December 18, 2025 for individuals and employers interested in participating. Registration information, eligibility requirements, and application links are available on the HEALR Program webpage. Questions may be directed to HEALR@health.ny.gov.