HI SB22

Establishes the Hawaii Health Corps Program with two components: a loan repayment program for primary care physicians and dentists, and a recruitment program for a broader range of health professionals to work in health professional shortage areas.

Loan repayment program repays qualifying educational loans for eligible physicians and dentists who commit to a minimum 2-year service obligation (up to 5 years) at approved sites in shortage areas, with a maximum award per federal limits under 42 U.S.C. Section 254l-1.

Recruitment program offers incentives up to $17,500 per year to recruit health professionals including physicians, dentists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, psychologists, and social workers to work in shortage areas, with support for spouses and families.

Gives hiring preference to University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine graduates, followed by state residents with ties to Hawaii (meeting at least 3 of 6 criteria including residency, birthplace, high school location, or native Hawaiian status).

Requires Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to implement by June 30, 2012, and award minimum 30 stipends of $30,000 annually in first three years, then maximum 100 stipends perpetually; appropriates general revenues for fiscal years 2011-2012 and 2012-2013.