Community Voices

One of the strongest arguments for robust investment in NIH funded basic, translational, and clinical research is a purely economic one. From this perspective, investment in NIH funded research generates a better return for the US economy than the vast majority of Wall Street investment houses do for their clients, which puts the US Gov't up there with Warren Buffet in terms of wise, long term investing.

One of the strongest arguments for robust investment in NIH funded basic, translational, and clinical research is a purely economic one. From this perspective, investment in NIH funded research generates a better return for the US economy than the vast majority of Wall Street investment houses do for their clients, which puts the US Gov't up there with Warren Buffet in terms of wise, long term investing.

As a medical student, substantial cuts to federal student aid programs would directly impact my ability to afford my education and pursue my dream of becoming a physician. Medical school is already financially demanding, with tuition, fees, and living expenses adding up to significant debt. Federal aid programs provide essential support that allows students like me to focus on rigorous coursework and clinical training without the overwhelming burden of financial insecurity. Reducing these resources could force students to take on excessive private loans, delay their education, or even abandon their medical aspirations altogether. At a time when the health care system needs more dedicated professionals, limiting access to financial aid would create unnecessary barriers for future doctors, ultimately affecting the quality and accessibility of patient care.

Program like these [PSLF and Grad PLUS] are essential to the improvement of medicine and public health. The U.S. already has a physician shortage and adding financial barriers exacerbates the problem as many cannot afford the financial burden of medical school.

As a rising MS2 and a dedicated member of my medical school community, I’ve seen firsthand how essential federal student aid programs like Grad PLUS and Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) are in making medical education accessible. Medical school is a rigorous and costly endeavor, but these programs allow students—especially those from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds—to pursue their passion for medicine without the insurmountable burden of private loans or financial insecurity. Grad PLUS has provided me with the necessary funding to focus on my studies, leadership roles, and service to my peers rather than worrying about financial barriers. PSLF, in turn, offers a pathway for aspiring physicians like me to give back to underserved communities without being crushed by loan repayment. Eliminating or reducing these programs would create even greater barriers for future physicians and exacerbate the physician shortage at a time when our communities need us most. I urge policymakers to safeguard these vital resources, ensuring that students from all backgrounds can continue their medical education and serve the patients who need them most.

The cuts in research and health services is going to make this country less competitive and in the long term disadvantage people.