The department shall select participants according to rules it promulgates and, in consultation with the university, shall create a standard process for medical students to declare their intentions to be primary care physicians and to apply to participate in the program. The department shall select loan recipients based on the following considerations and preferences:

1. A. the ability, character, and qualifications of each applicant; this is to include:

   1. (1) review of the applicant’s educational transcripts,
   2. (2) letters of recommendation from educational and medical field professionals, and
   3. (3) references;
2. B. the demonstrated interest of the applicant in serving in an underserved area;
3. C. an underserved area endorsement of the applicant; and
4. D. an applicant seeking to obtain a medical degree in a New Mexico certified/accredited program.

[5.7.4.9 NMAC - N, 10/31/2013]