Tennessee Department of Health Announces Fall 2026 Application Cycle for Tennessee State Loan Repayment Program

NASHVILLE, Tenn. The Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) today announced the application period for the Tennessee State Loan Repayment Program (TSLRP) will open on October 12. TSLRP provides loan repayment assistance to eligible primary care, dental, and behavioral health clinicians who commit to serving in rural and high need communities across Tennessee.

"TSLRP is an effective tool for strengthening Tennessee's clinical workforce," said Tennessee Health Commissioner Dr. John Dunn. "By supporting providers who serve in areas with limited access to care, we are investing in healthier communities and expanding essential services for Tennesseans."

TSLRP offers financial support to qualifying clinicians in exchange for a two year service commitment in areas designated as having shortages of primary care, dental, or mental health providers. The program aims to reduce educational loan burden while bolstering Tennessee's healthcare capacity in high-need areas across the state.

Fall 2026 Application Window
The TSLRP application cycle will open on October 12, 2026, and close on December 12, 2026 with full program details, deadlines, and application materials available at tn.gov/health/ruralhealth. TDH encourages interested clinicians, clinics and community partners to review eligibility criteria early to prepare for submission.

For more information about TSLRP and other loan repayment initiatives, visit tn.gov/health/ruralhealth.