Sangamon Sun

In a June 9 press release, Sen. Doris Turner (D-Decatur) touted a new law that  incentivizes medical professionals to work in underserved areas.

“Our rural health centers across the state have struggled to maintain adequate staff,” Turner said. “This law will mean that people across the state will have more access to high quality health care by incentivizing medical professionals to work in underserved areas.”

Senate Bill 3017 went into effect on May 17. It amends the Loan Repayment Assistance for Physicians Act. To address the shortage of obstetrical services in rural communities, it provides that a physician who provides obstetrical care and works at a privately owned rural health clinic may qualify for assistance under the act if all other established criteria are met. 

"Senate Bill 3017 will help enhance recruitment and retention efforts,” said Dr. Phil Johnson, of Litchfield Family Practice. “Doctors, physician assistants, and advanced practice nurses for rural health care facilities are very concerned about both recruiting and retaining skilled medical staff.”

Previously, medical professionals working in private clinics, often in historically underserved areas, were not eligible for loan forgiveness programs