Elevating the Safety Net

A looming physician shortage threatens the safety net that provides health care to vulnerable and low-income communities in Los Angeles County. To address this crisis, L.A. Care launched Elevating the Safety Net in July 2018.

This initiative utilizes innovative programs to recruit, train and retain highly-qualified primary care physicians for the L.A. County safety net:

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Provider Recruitment Program

This program includes salary subsidies, sign-on bonuses, and/or relocation costs for highly-qualified physicians recruited into the safety net. We offer individual grants of up to $125,000 per hired provider.

Apply for Recruitment Grants

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Apply for Loan Repayments

The Provider Loan Repayment Program is for physicians recruited into the safety net. It provides loan repayments of up to $5,000 per month for 36 months, with an opportunity to extend for an additional two years.

Apply for Loan Repayments

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Elevating the Safety Net Scholarship Program

Chosen by schools based on financial need, four students per academic year at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and four students per academic year at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, receive full medical school scholarships.

Meet the Scholars

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Residency Support Program

The Residency Support Program encourages new physicians to practice and remain in L.A. County by establishing new residency positions in medical teaching institutions.

See Program Awardees

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IHSS + Home Care Training Program

This program funds 10-week caregiver training courses throughout the year. It is offered to In-Home Supportive Services workers who provide care for L.A. Care members.

Apply for Training Program

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Additional Elevating the Safety Net Programs
  • Community Health Worker Training Program
  • National Medical Fellowships
  • Health Career Connection Internship Program and more

Access Additional Programs

Additional Information


Launching Elevating the Safety Net: View background information and a video of the launch event for this important initiative.

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions: Learn more details about Elevating the Safety Net, including why L.A. Care is doing this initiative.