Physician Loan Repayment: How Indiana Compares With Neighboring States

Loan repayment programs help physicians reduce educational debt in exchange for services in communities that need care. Understanding how Indiana's opportunities compare with those across state lines is an important aspect of supporting the recruitment and retention of the physician workforce.

The Bowen Center for Health Workforce Research and Policy's new policy brief examines physician loan repayment programs in Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, and Ohio. Indiana offers up to $80,000 over four years, the lowest maximum among the programs reviewed. Award amounts and service commitments vary, with neighboring states' highest program maximum ranging from $120,000 over four years to $375,000 over six years. 

This brief also examines differences between federal-state partnerships and state-funded programs and identifies considerations for strengthening Indiana's incentive programs. 

Read the full policy brief: https://go.iu.edu/PSnt8y