House Bill 144, introduced in the Georgia House Legislature on January 29, 2025, aims to enhance the training of future healthcare professionals by providing tax credits to community-based faculty preceptors. This initiative seeks to address the growing need for qualified healthcare providers in the state, particularly in underserved areas.

The bill defines key terms such as "community-based faculty preceptor," which includes licensed physicians, dentists, advanced practice registered nurses, and physician assistants who mentor students in their respective fields. It establishes a framework for "preceptorship training," which consists of uncompensated training for medical, physician assistant, and advanced practice registered nurse students, totaling 160 hours.

One of the bill's main provisions is the introduction of a tax credit for preceptors who conduct these training rotations. Specifically, preceptors will receive $500 for the first three rotations and $1,000 for each subsequent rotation, incentivizing experienced professionals to take on the responsibility of training the next generation of healthcare workers. This financial support is expected to encourage more practitioners to participate in educational roles, thereby increasing the availability of training opportunities for students.

The bill has sparked discussions among lawmakers and healthcare professionals regarding its potential impact on the healthcare workforce in Georgia. Proponents argue that by incentivizing preceptors, the bill could help alleviate the shortage of healthcare providers, particularly in rural and underserved communities. Critics, however, have raised concerns about the sustainability of such tax credits and whether they will effectively lead to an increase in trained professionals.

The implications of House Bill 144 extend beyond immediate tax benefits. If successful, the bill could contribute to improved healthcare access and quality across Georgia, addressing long-standing disparities in medical services. As the state grapples with a growing population and increasing healthcare demands, the outcomes of this legislation could play a crucial role in shaping the future of healthcare education and delivery in Georgia.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, stakeholders are closely monitoring its progress, with hopes that it will foster a more robust healthcare training environment and ultimately benefit communities statewide.