The Texas Critically Underserved Relief and Enhancement Act (Texas Cure Act) establishes the Rural Admission Medical Program (RAMP) to assist students from rural counties with populations under 25,000 in pursuing medical education. The Act creates a new subchapter in the Education Code, which includes the formation of the Rural Admission Medical Program Council. This council will be responsible for recruiting eligible undergraduate students, managing the application process, and providing scholarships and stipends. It also guarantees admission to at least one participating medical school for students who meet specific criteria. The bill outlines eligibility requirements, including residency and academic performance, and mandates that students maintain certain academic standards and participate in internship and mentoring programs.

Additionally, the bill introduces the Medically Extended Geographic Access (MEGA) Advanced Practice Registered Nurse to Physician Pathway program, facilitating the transition of advanced practice registered nurses into medical school. It amends existing laws regarding prescriptive authority agreements for physicians, particularly in underserved areas, and establishes requirements for regular meetings between physicians and advanced practice registered nurses or physician assistants. The legislation also allows physicians in rural counties who delegate prescriptive authority to apply for an additional $45,000 in medical school loan repayment assistance. The bill requires relevant boards to adopt necessary rules by February 1, 2026, and is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Occupations Code 157.0512 (Occupations Code 157)