Mississippi State Loan Repayment Program (SLRP): Sponsoring Entity (Practice Site)

The Mississippi State Loan Repayment Program (SLRP), administered by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH), is designed to recruit and retain healthcare professionals in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs) across Mississippi. Under solicitation 2026-RFA-173, eligible practice sites—including Federally Qualified Health Centers, Rural Health Clinics, and private practices in HPSAs—can apply for funding to support medical, nursing, dental, and mental health professionals. Eligible participants, specifically MDs and DOs, can receive up to $150,000 toward educational loan repayment in exchange for a minimum two-year service commitment. The total available funding for this RFA is approximately $3.93 million, with an initial performance period running from October 1, 2026, to October 1, 2028. Sponsoring entities must meet strict eligibility and compliance requirements, including a 1:1 non-federal match and registration in SAM.gov and the MAGIC system. Applications are evaluated on a point system, requiring a perfect score of 60/60 to be considered, with criteria focusing on HPSA designation, non-discrimination policies, sliding fee scales, and recruitment plans. Awarded funds are issued as lump sums to the sponsoring entity, which must deposit the funds into the participant's account within 30 days and provide proof of payment within 45 days. Sponsoring entities are prohibited from using these awards as salary offsets and must submit employment verification forms every six months. The application deadline is June 1, 2029, with all submissions required through the OpenGov Procurement portal.