The Florida Reimbursement Assistance for Medical Education (FRAME) program stands as a beacon for healthcare professionals dedicated to serving communities in need. This initiative is thoughtfully structured to provide financial support, specifically targeting the alleviation of loan burdens and educational expenses incurred by those pursuing careers in medicine, dentistry, mental health, and nursing. By offering annual reimbursement payments, FRAME effectively encourages qualified practitioners to establish their practices in Florida’s underserved areas, ensuring that quality healthcare reaches every corner of the state.
FRAME Award Amounts for Healthcare Professionals
The FRAME program recognizes the diverse roles within the healthcare sector by offering tailored award amounts to different professions. These awards are structured as a percentage of the loan principal, with varying maximum amounts and eligibility durations. Below is a detailed breakdown of the reimbursement structure:
For Physicians
- Reimbursement: 25% of Loan Principal
- Maximum Award: $150,000 (across all years)
- Eligibility Duration: 4 Years
For Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (AAPRNs)
- Reimbursement: 25% of Loan Principal
- Maximum Award: $90,000 (across all years)
- Eligibility Duration: 4 Years
For Dentists
- Reimbursement: 20% of Loan Principal
- Maximum Award: $250,000 (across all years)
- Eligibility Duration: 5 Years
For Mental Health Professionals
- Reimbursement: 25% of Loan Principal
- Maximum Award: $75,000 (across all years)
- Eligibility Duration: 4 Years
For Physician Assistants (PAs) & APRNs
- Reimbursement: 25% of Loan Principal
- Maximum Award: $75,000 (across all years)
- Eligibility Duration: 4 Years
For Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) & Registered Nurses (RNs)
- Reimbursement: 25% of Loan Principal
- Maximum Award: $45,000 (across all years)
- Eligibility Duration: 4 Years
For Dental Hygienists
- Reimbursement: 20% of Loan Principal
- Maximum Award: $37,500 (across all years)
- Eligibility Duration: 5 Years
Who is Eligible for These Healthcare Reimbursement Programs?
The FRAME program extends its eligibility to a broad spectrum of healthcare practitioners. Eligible professionals include:
- Physicians specializing in primary care, including psychiatrists.
- Physician Assistants (PAs).
- Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) with primary care specialties.
- Autonomous Practice Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (AP APRNs) registered under section 464.0123, Florida Statutes.
- Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs).
- Registered Nurses (RNs).
- Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, Licensed Mental Health Counselors, and Licensed Psychologists.
- Dentists.
- Dental Hygienists.
It is crucial to note that all applicants must maintain an active and clear Florida license throughout the entire program cycle, from the moment of application submission through to the receipt of any awarded funds. This ensures that only actively practicing and licensed professionals benefit from these healthcare reimbursement programs.
The Volunteer Service Requirement
An integral component of the FRAME program is the commitment to community service. Recipients of the reimbursement are required to complete 25 hours of volunteer primary care services annually. This service must be provided at a free clinic or another community service project that has received prior approval. This requirement underscores the program’s dual mission: to support healthcare professionals financially while simultaneously enhancing healthcare access within underserved communities.
Applications for the FRAME program are accepted annually between March 15 and April 30. For those seeking more detailed information about this vital healthcare reimbursement program, please visit the FRAMEworks portal.
