Even with all the uncertainty regarding healthcare changes, the industry is still projected to grow in the coming years.

There is already a shortage of qualified individuals, especially in rural areas and that gap will only increase in the coming years if some efforts to attract doctors – specifically new doctors – doesn’t take hold.

In than effort, the Bryan Whitfield Memorial Hospital Auxiliary is now accepting applications for scholarships for those pursuing a career in healthcare.

With a total of six $1,500 scholarships to award, this is no small endeavor for the group of volunteers.

The Auxiliary initiated the scholarship program in 2005 with the establishment of the Emmett and Carolyn Clinkscales Scholarship and the Carolyn S. (Betty) McCormick Scholarship. While both of the $1,500 gift scholarships are available to residents of Marengo, Sumter, Hale, Choctaw, Perry, Greene and Clarke counties, the McCormick scholarship is granted only to children and/or grandchildren of employees of the Tombigbee Healthcare Authority. With a total of six scholarships to present in 2011, three THA family members and three members of the general public will be assisted with their educations.

Eligibility requirements for each scholarship are as follows.

The Auxiliary may award up to $1,500 annually in financial assistance to individuals who reside within the medical service area of the Tombigbee Healthcare Authority and who wish to pursue education in the field of healthcare, without regard to race, color, creed, or national origin.

Any individual who is a graduating high school senior or above may apply for the scholarships as long as their chosen field of study is within the healthcare professions.

The applicant must provide proof of residency in either of the following counties: Marengo, Sumter, Hale, Choctaw, Perry, Greene, and Clarke. The applicant must possess a high school education or equivalent GED or other qualification relevant to the field of study applicable.

To obtain an application or more information, call the Volunteer Services Director at 334-287-2626. Scholarship applications are also available online at www.bwwmh.com.

There is a great need for new, enthusiastic and knowledgeable doctors in this area.

The need is now and that need will grow.

I encourage each of the qualified students to seek out this scholarship and apply what you learn in the area that provided you with the opportunity.

That’s the best way you can return the favor.

Jason Cannon is the editor and publisher of The Demopolis Times.