REGIONALLY-based students studying health in SA could be eligible for a scholarship worth up to $20,000, as part of the SA Health 2021 Rural Health Undergraduate Scholarship program.
SA Health's Rural Support Service executive director Debbie Martin, said six undergraduate scholarships would be available to students who demonstrate a strong commitment to continue their future professional practice in regional areas.
"We encourage all year 12 students and new and continuing university students who reside in regional areas to apply for the scholarship," she said.
"Scholarship recipients are awarded $5000 per year for up to four years of their study to help support them while learning.
"Recipients will be required to work in a regional health service once graduated for a period of time equivalent to the number of years they received funding, which will provide job security for graduates."
Ms Martin said the goal was to encourage students to work in regional areas.
"And in turn, grow and support our regional workforce for the future," she said.
"Students have an important role to play in health care in regional areas and are the future of our health system, which is why it is important for us to provide the support they need to study and live in a regional area.
"This scholarship is another way to help attract and retain the rural health workforce we need for the future."
A selection panel comprising representatives from nursing and midwifery, allied health, mental health and Aboriginal health will assess each application with valuable local knowledge to assist with the decision-making process.
The successful applicants are selected based on workforce need as determined by the six regional local health networks, which can include areas of study in health professions such as dietetics, nursing, midwifery, occupational therapy, and physiotherapy.
Applications for the 2021 Undergraduate Scholarships Program will close on February 28.