43-29.1-03. Veterinarian selection criteria - Eligibility for loan repayment.

1. In establishing the criteria regarding eligibility for loan repayment funds under this chapter, the department of health and human services shall consider the applicant's: a. Training in food animal veterinary medicine, ability, willingness to engage in food animal veterinary medicine, and the extent to which such services are needed in a selected community; b. Commitment to serve in a community that is in need of a veterinarian; c. Compatibility with a selected community; d. Date of availability for service to the selected community; and e. Competence and professional conduct.

2. An applicant selected to receive loan repayment funds under this chapter: a. Must have graduated from an accredited college of veterinary medicine; b. Must be licensed to practice veterinary medicine in this state; and c. Must be employed full-time in the private practice of veterinary medicine.

3. A selected applicant shall contract to provide full-time veterinary medicine services for two, three, or four years in one or more selected communities.