The California Department of Health Care Access and Information approved $40.8 million in grants to 20 organizations to support underrepresented students, according to a Sept. 21 news release.
The awards will support about 32,800 participants in 30 countries and will be issued through the Health Professionals Pathways Program. The aim is to encourage students from underrepresented regions and encourage them to pursue healthcare careers, according to the release.
"California, like many states, is facing tremendous workforce shortages and inequities in the health care delivery system. The Health Professions Pathways Program awards are a step in the right direction – one that seeks and supports health providers that look, speak, and have the same life experiences as the diverse Californians they serve," said California Health and Human Services Agency Secretary Mark Ghaly, MD.
California Department of Health Care Access Director, Elizabeth Landsberg said reaching out to the next generation of healthcare professionals is a vital part of preparing the workforce.
"HCAI is pleased to provide this financial support for pipeline programs, internships and fellowships that will open the door to needed healthcare professions for students, and in turn help the state create a more diverse and linguistically competent healthcare workforce," Ms. Landsberg said.
See the full list of grant recipients here.