The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) has added a special page devoted specifically to RTs to its Health Workforce Information Center Web site. A major goal of the HRSA is to disseminate educational scholarship and loan information to health professionals.
The new page features information on resources, organizations, events, and news pertaining to the profession, plus four funding opportunities specifically open to RTs:
- The Health Careers Foundation Scholarships and Loans program aims to provide scholarships and low-interest loans to cover gaps in funding from other sources, and especially targets nontraditional students who may have limited funding opportunities from other options. The nationwide program is also designed to ease shortages of trained health care professionals across the country. The program runs from January 1 to April 1 every year. The application deadline is April 1.
- The Health Profession Scholarship Program awards $2,000 scholarships to students who live or work in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts. Awarded by the Metrowest Community Health Care Foundation, the scholarship program is available to students currently enrolled in an accredited program. The High School Scholarship Program is open to seniors who are entering an accredited institution within 6 months of graduation and plan to pursue a career in a health profession. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.
- The Indian Health Service Loan Repayment Program provides loan repayment for both undergraduate and graduate students in return for full-time clinical service in Indian health programs. Up to $20,000 per year may be awarded for the repayment of qualifying health professions education loans. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.
- The South Dakota Health Professional Recruitment Incentive Program is designed to assist in the recruitment of health professionals to South Dakota communities. This program provides $5,000 directly to each health professional who has entered into a contract and completed a two-year, full-time service commitment at an eligible employing facility in South Dakota. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.
Source: American Association for Respiratory Care