NY A10638

Establishes a dentist loan repayment program providing up to $1.2 million per state fiscal year from April 1, 2024 through March 31, 2027, with awards not exceeding a dentist's total qualifying student loan debt for education expenses.

Requires participating dentists to practice for at least three years in an underserved area as determined by the commissioner, with repayment obligations triggered if the commitment is not fulfilled.

Creates a dentist practice support program providing up to $3 million per fiscal year for the same period to support costs of establishing or joining practices in underserved communities and to help hospitals recruit dentists to underserved areas.

Allocates both programs regionally with one-third of funds to New York City and two-thirds to the rest of the state, with at least 50 percent of each program's funds distributed through general hospitals.

Prioritizes funding for up to eight dentists trained in general or pediatric dentistry at teaching hospitals who practice in underserved communities, with remaining funds available to other qualified dentists and healthcare providers.