Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mike Enzi, R-Wyo., applauded the passage of a bill to give incentives to individuals who pursue an education in health care and then practice in Wyoming. More health care providers will improve the care of thousands of Wyoming citizens who rely on the three community health centers in the state, according to Enzi.

“This bill helps future doctors pay for their education when they agree to come to rural areas.  That’s especially crucial in Wyoming, where we’re experiencing a shortage of every type of health care provider,” said Enzi. “In Wyoming, thousands of residents take advantage of the primary, dental and mental health care services provided by the 12 community health centers located throughout the state. These centers provide vital access to high-quality health care, regardless of the patient’s ability to pay. Having qualified staff to serve these patients is essential,” Enzi said.

The Senate passed the Health Care Safety Net Act, S. 901, Monday.  The bill would reauthorize the Health Centers program and by paying some or all of students’ education expenses for those who serve in rural areas upon graduation, it would improve access to quality health care in rural and underserved areas like Wyoming.

The Health Care Safety Net Act is an important part of Senator Enzi’s comprehensive health care reform bill, the 10 Steps to Transform Health Care in America Act (S. 1783).  It fulfills a critical piece of step nine, which seeks to “increase access to primary care in rural and frontier areas by helping future providers pay for their education.”  Enzi helped congressional members and stakeholders reach the agreement that the Senate approved unanimously Monday.

For more information about Enzi’s 10 Steps to Transform Health Care in America, log on to www.enzi.senate.gov/10steps.