(Madera, CA) - The California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) recently announced a commitment to pay more than $58 million in medical student loans under a new program to expand access to care for Medi-Cal patients.
Two of the 247 physicians awarded a grant are Valley Children’s Pediatric Intensivist Dr. Molly Dorfman and Pediatric Plastic and Hand Surgeon Dr. Michael Galvez.
More than 1,300 healthcare providers applied for the program, which is open to physicians who meet certain criteria. It includes having a Medi-Cal patient caseload of 30% or more, direct patient care, additional languages spoken at work and a personal statement. Recipients receive up to $300,000 in student loan repayments and must commit to practicing in medically underserved areas for at least five years.
“I am honored to be included in this prestigious group of doctors working with this vulnerable population,” says Dr. Dorfman. “This is also a recognition for the work we continue to do in our pediatric ICU to develop more efficient, standardized and equitable ways to provide care with this resource-stressed community.”
Dr. Galvez adds, “I feel very fortunate to have the support of the state and of Valley Children’s. This is a dream job to provide comprehensive and high-quality care for all children and teenagers in Central California.”
We congratulate Dr. Dorfman and Dr. Galvez commend them for their continued dedication to our patients and families.