(a) Each application will be screened by the department for eligibility and completeness.
(b) If needed, the department may invite advisors from outside the department to evaluate eligible applications. Advisors from outside the department shall receive no compensation or reimbursement for expenses. Advisors may not be a current or potential applicant for a grant on which the advisors would be making recommendations.
(c) Applications are scored based on evaluation criteria which may include, but are not limited to, the following:
  (1) type of assistance (loan reimbursement or stipend);
  (2) ineligibility for any other state loan forgiveness, loan repayment, or stipend program;
  (3) graduation from health professional degree programs in Texas;
  (4) use of telecommunications or telemedicine, as appropriate;
  (5) commitment from a qualifying community served by the health professional to contribute to the cost of the loan reimbursement or stipend; and
  (6) community needs.
(d) The department will prioritize the provision of loan reimbursements and stipends to health professionals who meet one or more criteria provided in subsection (c)(2) - (5) of this section.
(e) Reviewer scores will be averaged and the highest scoring applications will be selected for funding.

Source Note: The provisions of this §30.242 adopted to be effective January 1, 2015, 39 TexReg 10395; amended to be effective January 28, 2018, 43 TexReg 451