Bill > HB06979

This bill aims to support healthcare access and physician recruitment by implementing two key provisions. First, the bill allows retired physicians to provide free primary and behavioral health care services at nonprofit clinics, with a reduced annual license renewal fee of 10% of the standard professional services fee or $95, whichever is greater. These retired physicians will have restrictions on their practice, such as providing only volunteer services without monetary compensation. The bill requires the Commissioner of Public Health to establish regulations defining "retired from the profession" and outlining procedures for license renewal and reinstatement. Second, the bill mandates the establishment of a student loan repayment program for healthcare providers who offer primary care and behavioral health services in the state, with primary care defined broadly to include family medicine, pediatrics, internal medicine, and primary care obstetrics or gynecology. The Commissioner will develop eligibility criteria and participant obligations for this program. These measures are designed to address healthcare provider shortages, support medical professionals in underserved areas, and provide additional healthcare resources to communities through retired physicians' volunteer services and targeted loan repayment incentives.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

Public Health Committee (J)

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=HB06979&which_year=2025