The ECR-LRP is a congressionally mandated loan repayment program that was established by the Secretary for the Department of Health and Human Services through the Director of NIH. The objective of the ECR-LRP is the recruitment and retention of highly qualified health professionals from disadvantaged backgrounds to clinical research careers. The emphasis on clinical research and individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds highlights the need for the involvement of a cadre of competent physician scientists in clinical research. Such a cadre of clinical investigators have the potential of impacting the medical processes within their communities by engaging in as well as promoting the development of clinical research programs that reflect an understanding of the variety of issues and problems associated with health status.

A non-profit institution must support applicant’s research, foundation, professional society or U.S. government entity (Federal, state, or local), and applicants must commit 50% or more of their time, or not less than 20 hours per week, to health disparities, or clinical research.