Southern West Virginia News

Last week, Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV) and Congresswoman Jill Tokuda (D-HI) introduced the Strengthening Pathways to Health Professions Act. This legislation aims to enhance access to federal programs that support the development of healthcare professionals in primary care, mental and behavioral health, and dental services.

Congresswoman Miller emphasized the challenges faced by rural communities due to a shortage of healthcare workers. "A shortage of health care workers in rural communities presents many challenges for hospitals and medical facilities trying to provide the best possible care for their patients. The Strengthening Pathways to Health Professions Act will extend the tax-exempt status provided to awards of the National Health Service Corps program which gives financial relief to health care personnel," she stated.

Congresswoman Tokuda highlighted the impact on patient care caused by workforce shortages. "The shortage of healthcare workers in the United States has left millions of patients without access to the care they need while causing undue stress and strain on the current workforce," she said. She added that this bipartisan effort would help recruit and retain providers in underserved areas.

Jim Kaufman, President and CEO of the West Virginia Hospital Association, expressed support for Rep. Miller's efforts: "The West Virginia Hospital Association applauds Rep. Carol Miller for her introduction of the Strengthening Pathways to Health Professions Act."

Danielle Turnipseed from the Association of American Medical Colleges noted that savings from this act could increase awards through Title VII and VIII workforce programs: "Studies show that these programs increase the number of underrepresented students enrolled in health professions schools."

The bill is backed by 50 national and local organizations including America's Essential Hospitals, National Rural Health Association, and American Association of Colleges of Nursing.

The Strengthening Pathways to Health Professions Act proposes tax-exempt status for certain federal scholarship and loan repayment programs at HRSA. This exemption would allow HRSA to offer more substantial awards without imposing additional tax burdens on recipients.