GA HB659

Adds optometrists to Georgia's service cancelable loan program for medical professionals practicing in underserved rural areas, joining physicians, dentists, physician assistants, and advanced practice registered nurses already eligible

Optometrists receiving loans must be U.S. citizens, licensed in Georgia, and graduates of accredited health care education programs to qualify

Loans are repaid through service: one year of practice in an approved underserved rural area cancels one year's loan amount plus accrued interest

Expands recruitment grants to hospitals, health care entities, local governments, and civic organizations to include optometrist recruitment, with required matching funds from grant recipients

Georgia Board of Health Care Workforce will determine optometrist-underserved rural areas using criteria including provider-to-population ratios, health status indicators, and poverty levels