Public Health Workforce Bill Aims to Tackle Critical Shortages Nationwide

Public Health Workforce Bill Aims to Tackle Critical Shortages Nationwide

It’s no secret that the U.S. is facing a critical shortage of infectious disease and public health professionals, leaving many communities vulnerable during outbreaks and emergencies. Nearly 80% of counties lack an infectious disease specialist, and local health departments require massive staffing increases just to deliver essential services. To address this crisis, Congress has introduced H.R. 4445, the Public Health and Bio-Preparedness Workforce Loan Repayment Reauthorization Act of 2025.

“When communities lack skilled personnel to detect, contain, and treat infectious diseases, outbreaks spread faster, health care systems become overwhelmed, and vulnerable populations suffer disproportionately. Robust public health and ID capacity is critical to protecting Americans from known and emerging threats, including antimicrobial resistance, pandemics, and bioterrorism. These programs directly support that mission by ensuring more professionals are positioned where they are most urgently needed.”

The bipartisan bill extends federal loan repayment programs that incentivize young professionals to enter and remain in public health and infectious disease fields. By offering up to $35,000 annually in student loan repayment for service in high-need areas, the legislation aims to recruit and retain talent in roles critical for disease detection, treatment, and emergency preparedness.

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