The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) recently announced an updated application period for the 2026 Michigan State Loan Repayment Program (MSLRP), which will be open from March 2 through April 30, 2026. The program offers hospitals and other eligible employers an opportunity to recruit and retain primary medical, dental and mental health providers. MSLRP provides tax-free student loan repayment to eligible providers who commit to serving in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs), with awards of up to $300,000 over a period of up to 10 years.
For the 2026 application cycle, MSLRP will use a new online application portal through the State of Michigan’s MiLogin system. Providers are responsible for submitting applications and must include required employed documentation. Employer contribution requirements remain at 20% for nonprofit employers and 50% for for-profit employers placing providers in nonprofit sites, with contributions waived for eligible State of Michigan employees working at state psychiatric hospitals and for Indian Tribal-Affiliated Primary Care Clinics.
MDHHS identified several priority application groups for 2026, including inpatient pediatric psychiatric providers, provider practices in Genesee Country and northern obstetric service providers. Early submissions are encouraged, as those who submit in March will receive priority consideration. Non-priority practices sites with HPSA scores of eight or higher will be treated as priority sites.
Members with questions may contact Lenise Freeman at the MHA.