Raleigh, N.C. — In an effort to improve access to healthcare across North Carolina’s rural regions, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has unveiled a new opportunity for educational loan repayment through the North Carolina Primary Care Physician Incentive program.
The initiative offers financial relief to primary care physicians working in independent private practices located in designated rural counties, helping attract and retain medical professionals in underserved communities.
“We deeply value the dedication of our private practice physicians and recognize the essential role they play in ensuring health care access for our rural communities,” said NCDHHS Secretary Dev Sangvai. “Through this program, we aim to offset some of the financial burden and invest in our health care workforce.”
Supporting One of the Nation’s Largest Rural Populations
North Carolina is home to the second-largest rural population in the U.S., with more than 4.6 million residents—nearly one-third of the state—living in rural areas. Ensuring equitable access to medical care in these communities has become a growing challenge, especially for independent private practices facing financial and staffing barriers.
The NC Primary Care Physician Incentive is part of a $50 million investment by the North Carolina General Assembly to support healthcare providers, mental health services, and nursing across the state. In a major policy shift, independent private practices in rural, medically underserved areas are now eligible for this type of loan repayment support—something not previously offered before 2025.
Who’s Eligible?
The program is open to primary care physicians in independent private practices located in Tier 1 and Tier 2 counties, as defined by North Carolina’s County Distress Rankings. Eligible specialties include:
- Family Medicine
- General Internal Medicine
- General Surgery (within critical access hospitals only)
- General Pediatrics
- Obstetrics/Gynecology
- Psychiatry
In total, 80 counties qualify under the Tier 1 and 2 classifications.
Act Quickly—Funding Is Limited
Applications are now open, but funding is limited and awards will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis for complete and eligible applications. Up to 16 awards will be granted in each of the state’s six Medicaid regions.
For full eligibility details and to apply, healthcare professionals are encouraged to visit the NCDHHS Office of Rural Health website. The Office also offers additional recruitment and incentive programs for providers in medical, dental, and behavioral health fields.
