The Health Professional Recruitment Program (HPRP) was established to increase the number of osteopathic doctors, physicians assistants, podiatrists and physical therapists practicing in high-need communities in Iowa. The program provides loan repayment benefits to individuals that practice in specified locations for up to four years. The maximum award for this program is $50,000, which is paid in four increments toward outstanding Federal Stafford Loan and Grad PLUS Loan balances at the end of each 12 month employment period. HPRP Fact Sheet (pdf)

Eligibility criteria:

• Graduate from Des Moines University.
• Be employed as an osteopathic doctor, physician assistant, podiatrist, or physical therapist in a high-need community in Iowa that agrees to provide a dollar-for-dollar loan repayment match to state funds.  High need communities must be a designated Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) or listed on the Governor’s Designated Health Clinic County list.
• Complete an application with Des Moines University for funding.
• Practice in a high-need community for four years.

Award amount:

The maximum annual award is $12,500 for up to four consecutive years. The maximum amount a recipient can receive over the four-year period is $50,000. Award amounts may be reduced if the community matching funds are less than the annual maximum award. All award funds must be applied to outstanding student loan balances.

High-Need Communities:

Governor’s Designated Rural Health Clinic Counties (pdf)

How to apply:

Visit the Des Moines University website and complete an application between January and March.

Des Moines University

Important Dates:

The 2020 application cycle has been extended through April 30, 2020.