Now in its third year, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee’s 2015 Diversity Scholarship application process is open. This year, the scholarship amount has been increased from $5,000 to $10,000.
As health care reform brings increased access to insurance to populations never covered before, it also creates a greater need for a qualified, diverse workforce to deliver health care. To address this need, the BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Community Trust, in collaboration with the Memphis chapter of the National Association of Health Services Executives (NAHSE), is offering three $10,000 college scholarships to Tennessee minority students pursuing careers in health care.
The scholarships – which recognize outstanding achievements in academics, community service and leadership – are awarded to undergraduate students who wish to pursue careers in health care.
“These scholarships provide a much-needed resource for minority students to achieve continued academic success,” said Ron Harris, director of workforce diversity for BlueCross. “This financial assistance will not only help deserving students achieve their dreams but should also improve diversity in the health care field.”
According to BlueCross’ research on health care reform and its impacts on minority populations in Tennessee, African-Americans, Hispanics, American Indians, Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiians as well as other Pacific Islanders remain underrepresented in medicine relative to their numbers in the U.S. population and populations in specific states, regions and localities.
The money will be distributed in two increments of $5,000 over two semesters. Applications are due Feb. 28.