SMPH will receive $3.25 million over five years from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) through its Scholarships for Disadvantaged Students (SDS) program. The grant will fund scholarships for MD students from economically, educationally and geographically disadvantaged backgrounds. The MD Pathways Scholarship Program aims to increase enrollment of these students and to increase the number of graduates who practice primary care and work in rural, tribal and other medically underserved communities.

The proposal drew its strength from programs already serving these students across SMPH. “My hope is that this opportunity will reduce barriers and encourage folks to engage in the programs you are operating,” said Ryan Tsuchida, MD, assistant dean for multicultural affairs for health professions learners. “I cannot think of an initiative that better exemplifies the Wisconsin Idea.”

Academic Affairs seeks faculty and staff to serve as scholarship reviewers. Reviewers will help select students for whom cost poses a significant barrier to medical school and who plan to pursue primary care or practice in rural, tribal and other medically underserved communities. Sign up through the Scholarship Reviewer Interest Form. Academic Affairs will contact respondents in November or December.