The proposed bill aims to address the critical shortage of primary care providers in Rhode Island by establishing a new scholarship program titled "The Medical Primary Care Scholarship Program." This initiative will be administered by the director of the Department of Health in consultation with the commissioner of post-secondary education. The program will offer scholarships to eligible medical students, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants, with a focus on academic excellence and a commitment to serving in primary care within the state. The bill allows for the awarding of up to five new scholarships each academic year, with funding of up to $70,000 per year for medical school and up to $47,000 per year for nurse practitioner and physician assistant programs. Recipients are required to maintain good academic standing and commit to working in Rhode Island for a specified period after graduation.

To ensure the program's effectiveness, the bill includes provisions for financial management, appropriating $1 million annually starting in fiscal year 2025, with a portion designated for program administration. It mandates annual audits and reports for transparency and accountability, and outlines repayment requirements for recipients who do not fulfill their educational or work obligations in Rhode Island. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and aims to enhance the availability of primary care services in the state by incentivizing medical professionals to practice in Rhode Island after completing their education. No specific deletions from current law are noted in the text provided.