# New York State Awards HEALR Program Funds

New York State has awarded **$48.3 million** through the Healthcare Access Loan Repayment (HEALR) Program to 352 healthcare professionals committed to serving Medicaid members and uninsured populations in underserved areas. This funding supports a four-year service commitment targeting high-demand specialties and Health Professional Shortage Areas, aiming to alleviate workforce shortages and improve healthcare access across the state.

- The HEALR Program is authorized under New York’s 1115 Demonstration Waiver, highlighting its strategic role in Medicaid safety net strengthening.
- Procurement professionals should note the program’s focus on loan repayment incentives as a workforce development tool, which may influence future healthcare staffing contracts and service delivery models.
- Healthcare contractors and service providers can explore partnership opportunities with state agencies to support recruitment and retention in underserved regions.
- This initiative underscores New York State’s commitment to expanding healthcare access, signaling potential for related procurement in healthcare workforce and Medicaid service support.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Healthcare
**Topics:** Grants & Funding
**Published:** September 25, 2026

### Government Entities
- New York State
- New York State Department of Health

### Key Quotes
> This investment in our healthcare workforce is also a tremendous commitment to serving populations where quality, essential care is not easily accessed.
> — James McDonald, New York State Health Commissioner

> Every New Yorker deserves access to high-quality healthcare, no matter where they live or how much they earn.
> — Kathy Hochul, Governor

> Authorized under New York’s landmark 1115 Demonstration Waiver, the HEALR Program is a game-changer for our Medicaid safety net.
> — Amir Bassiri, New York State Medicaid Director

### Sources
- [Governor Hochul Announces $48.3 Million Awarded for the Healthcare Access Loan Repayment Program | Governor Kathy Hochul | New York State](https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-483-million-awarded-healthcare-access-loan-repayment-program) - NY