The Northern Samar provincial government announced the acceptance of the medical scholarship applications of 13 students.

In a statement on Friday, the provincial government said the 13 students have been assessed to see if they are qualified for the scholarship program.

“The program was conceptualized to help produce more doctors who will serve in public hospitals in the province, toward continuously enhancing healthcare service delivery in Northern Samar. It has admitted medical scholars from the province every year, supporting their studies through tuition, stipend, book and uniform allowances per semester,” the provincial government said.

The provincial medical scholarship program (MSP) board interviewed the applicants on Aug. 12.

It was the last step of the assessment process, after which the team deliberated on the merits of the applications based on the academic performance, financial need, and behavioral competency.

From the assessment results, the board will transmit its recommendation to Governor Harris Ongchuan for him to decide who among the applicants deserve the scholarship.

Dr. Ma. Aurora Vicencio, chair of the provincial MSP Board, said the program has already produced five doctors, with a 100 percent passing rate in the licensure examination.

Currently, there are 22 medical scholars spread across different year levels. Five will take the board exam by the end of the year.

“I am grateful that the program brings hope of continued healthy human resources who will aid in healthcare service delivery in government hospitals in the province,” Vicencio said.

Successful applicants will be invited next for the signing of the contract and return service agreement, which will seal the award of the medical scholarship.

The scholars are entitled to receive grants that cover tuition and other school fees of up to PHP100,000 and an additional PHP70,000 for stipend, book, and uniform allowance per semester.

The provincial government will also shoulder the internship and review fees for the physician licensure examination of up to PHP60,000.

The medical scholarship program started last year with eight medical students as pioneering beneficiaries. (PNA)