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SF 4118

Health professional education loan forgiveness program for physicians licensed to practice medicine in the area of obstetrics and gynecology appropriation

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Gary Dahms and 3 co-sponsors

Minnesota proposes funding loan forgiveness for licensed obstetrics and gynecology physicians to address physician workforce shortages in the state.

Referred to Health and Human Services
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Bill Summary · SF 4118

Legislative bill overview

SF 4118 proposes a state-funded loan forgiveness program specifically for physicians who are licensed to practice obstetrics and gynecology in Minnesota. The bill includes an appropriation (funding allocation) to support this initiative, though the specific dollar amount and program details are not outlined in the introduction materials provided.

Why is this important

Obstetrics and gynecology faces documented workforce shortages in many states, particularly in rural areas, which can limit access to maternal health care and reproductive services. Loan forgiveness programs are designed to incentivize physicians to practice in underserved regions or specialties by reducing the financial burden of medical education debt, which typically exceeds $200,000 per graduate.

Potential points of contention

  • Specialty-specific targeting: Why prioritize OB/GYN physicians over other shortage specialties (rural primary care, psychiatry, emergency medicine)? This selective approach may face criticism as inequitable or inefficient use of state funds.
  • Cost and sustainability: The appropriation amount is unknown, but loan forgiveness programs can be expensive; unclear if funding is one-time or ongoing, and whether it's fiscally sustainable or diverts resources from other health initiatives.
  • Effectiveness and accountability: No performance metrics are specified—the bill lacks requirements ensuring physicians actually practice in underserved areas, remain in Minnesota long-term, or achieve documented workforce improvement goals.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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