RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences has announced a significant new scholarship programme with the United Health Foundation, the philanthropic foundation of Optum Ireland’s parent company, UnitedHealth Group.

The programme is designed to grow the healthcare workforce in Ireland and focuses on underserved students seeking degrees in primary or specialised care, or emerging healthcare technologies.

The Ireland Health Care Scholarship Program builds on the success of the pilot programme started by Optum Ireland in 2018. More than €350,000 will support 31 students across the five academic partners. All scholarship students will be paired with a mentor and will participate in community volunteer activities.

Cathal Kelly, Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer at RCSI, said: "RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences is delighted to partner with the Ireland Health Care Scholarship program in supporting students to progress their ambition of becoming a medical doctor, and to begin their journey here at RCSI.

"We know the demands on medical students are significant and medicine brings a unique set of challenges. The Ireland Healthcare Aim High Scholarship will see some of these challenges lessened for students, allowing them to fully focus on their studies as well as their health and well-being. RCSI believes meaningful engagement and partnership is an essential component to improving health outcomes around the world. In partnering with Optum Ireland and the United Health Foundation, we are able to support the next generation of medical doctors in Ireland."

"The United Health Foundation is committed to helping cultivate a modern, diverse health workforce in Ireland," said Padraig Monaghan, Managing Director of Optum Ireland and UK. "We are honoured to launch this new scholarship program with RCSI."

The Ireland Health Care Scholarship Program for 2022–23 is open for applications, and the application form for the Ireland Healthcare Aim High Scholarship will be available on the RCSI scholarship pages later this month. The deadline for applications is Friday, 27 May 2022. 

Through collaboration with community partners, grants and outreach efforts, the United Health Foundation works to improve the health system, build a diverse and dynamic health workforce and enhance the well-being of local communities. The United Health Foundation was established by UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) in 1999 as a not-for-profit, private foundation dedicated to improving health and healthcare. To date, the United Health Foundation has committed more than $590 million to programs and communities around the world. To learn more, visit the United Health Foundation website.

Optum is a leading information and technology-enabled health services business dedicated to helping make the health system work better for everyone. With more than 210,000 people worldwide, Optum delivers intelligent, integrated solutions that help to modernise the health system and improve overall population health. Optum is part of UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH). For more information, visit the Optum website.