FL S0764

Creates the Dental Student Loan Repayment Program under the Department of Health to support dentists treating medically underserved populations in dental health professional shortage areas.

Eligible dentists must be Florida-licensed, actively employed in county health departments, Children's Medical Services, federally-funded community health centers, or similar public health programs serving Medicaid recipients and low-income patients.

Awards up to $50,000 per year per dentist for repayment of loans covering tuition, books, equipment, supplies, uniforms, and living expenses, with eligibility lasting 1-5 years.

Limits new program participation to no more than 10 dentists per fiscal year and terminates eligibility if dentists cease employment in qualifying programs, leave the Florida Medicaid program, or face Board of Dentistry disciplinary action.

Department of Health must adopt rules to administer the program, with funds subject to legislative appropriation and repayment made directly to loan holders.