ABOUT ma repay

Strengthening the Healthcare Workforce, Reducing Student Debt

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The MA Repay Student Loan Repayment Program addresses critical workforce shortages in Massachusetts' health and human services sectors. By offering substantial student loan repayment support to eligible clinicians and direct care professionals, the program strengthens the community care workforce and reduces financial barriers for those serving in vital roles. The program is administered by the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers (Mass League) in partnership with the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS).

the problem

Massachusetts faces a critical shortage of health professionals, driven by burnout, early retirements, and career transitions to other fields. These staffing challenges significantly impact patient care and the healthcare workforce.

Workforce shortages result in longer hospital stays, preventable emergency department visits, and worse patient outcomes. For health professionals and organizations, turnover leads to overwork, burnout, and a continuous cycle of staff attrition.

60%

of registered nurses in Massachusetts reported understaffing as their primary challenge.

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84%

of Massachusetts community health centers report relying on staff to work extra hours due to staffing shortages.

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1 in 3

of Massachusetts residents who had an Emergency Department visit in 2023, reported that they could have been treated by a general physician if one had been available.

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what we do

The MA Repay Program promotes workforce retention by alleviating student debt for health and human service professionals. Participants commit to serving in eligible roles for a specified service commitment and, in return, may receive up to $300,000 in student loan repayment.

The program currently has nine initiatives, each with specific eligibility criteria. While new applications are not being accepted at this time, prospective participants can learn more about these programs here.

how to participate

our commitment to health equity

Future Updates

Stay informed about all MA Repay program updates through our website and on our social media channels.