The Florida Reimbursement Assistance for Medical Education (FRAME) program stands as a crucial initiative designed to bolster healthcare access across the state, particularly in underserved communities. This program provides vital financial support to dedicated medical professionals, encouraging them to establish their practices in areas where healthcare services are most needed. By offering annual reimbursement payments, FRAME helps offset the significant burden of educational loans and expenses incurred by those pursuing careers in medicine, dentistry, mental health, and nursing. This support extends to a wide range of healthcare disciplines, ensuring a comprehensive approach to addressing healthcare disparities throughout Florida.
Understanding FRAME Program Award Amounts
The FRAME program offers varying award amounts based on the healthcare profession, acknowledging the diverse educational paths and financial needs within the medical field. These awards are structured to provide substantial assistance over several years, directly targeting the principal loan amounts. Below is a breakdown of the reimbursement awards available under the FRAME program:
For Physicians
Eligible physicians can receive 25% of their loan principal reimbursed, with a maximum of $150,000 across all years of participation. The program offers support for up to 4 years of eligibility, providing sustained financial relief.
For Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (AAPRNs)
AAPRNs are offered 25% of their loan principal for reimbursement, up to a maximum of $90,000 in total. Similar to physicians, the eligibility period extends for 4 years.
For Dentists
Dentistry professionals can benefit from a 20% reimbursement of their loan principal, with a higher maximum of $250,000 available throughout the program. Dentists enjoy an extended eligibility of 5 years, reflecting the long-term commitment to serving communities.
For Mental Health Professionals
This category, encompassing licensed clinical social workers, marriage and family therapists, mental health counselors, and psychologists, is eligible for 25% of their loan principal to be reimbursed, with a $75,000 maximum over 4 years of eligibility.
For Physician Assistants (PAs) & Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs)
PAs and APRNs (in categories not specified as AAPRNs) are also included, with 25% of their loan principal eligible for reimbursement, up to $75,000 maximum across 4 years.
For Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) & Registered Nurses (RNs)
LPNs and RNs, critical components of the healthcare workforce, can receive 25% of their loan principal back, with a maximum of $45,000 over a 4-year eligibility period.
For Dental Hygienists
Dental hygienists are offered 20% of their loan principal reimbursed, up to $37,500 maximum. Like dentists, they have a 5-year eligibility period, recognizing their important role in dental health.
Who is Eligible for These Health Care Reimbursement Programs?
The FRAME program is inclusive, aiming to support a broad spectrum of healthcare providers. Eligible practitioners include:
- Physicians specializing in primary care, including psychiatry.
- Physician Assistants (PAs).
- Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) with primary care specialties.
- Autonomous Practice APRNs (AP APRNs) registered under Florida Statutes.
- Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs).
- Registered Nurses (RNs).
- Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, Licensed Mental Health Counselors, and Licensed Psychologists.
- Dentists.
- Dental Hygienists.
Crucially, all applicants must maintain an active and clear Florida license throughout the entire program cycle, from the initial application submission through to receiving any awarded payments. This ensures that only currently practicing and licensed professionals are benefiting from the program.
Volunteer Service Requirement for Continued Reimbursement
A key component of the FRAME program is the integration of community service. To maintain eligibility for reimbursement payments, qualified applicants are required to complete 25 hours of volunteer primary care services annually. This service must be performed at a free clinic or another approved community service project. This requirement underscores the program’s dual mission: to provide financial assistance and to enhance healthcare access for underserved populations through direct service.
For individuals interested in applying or seeking more detailed information about Which Health Care Is Reimbursement Programs offered by FRAME, and to access the application portal, please visit the FRAMEworks portal. Applications are accepted annually between March 15th and April 30th.
