State Representative Matt Dubnik (R-Gainesville) was recently named the 2019 Family Medicine Legislative Champion of the Year by the Georgia Academy of Family Physicians for his commitment to advocating for physicians and patients. During the 2019 legislative session, Rep. Dubnik sponsored legislation that offers a state tax credit for physicians who precept nurse practitioners, physician assistants and medical students.

“I’m honored to have received this generous award from the Georgia Academy of Family Physicians,” said Rep. Dubnik. “House Bill 287 will help provide greater medical care to our citizens, as well as alleviate the state tax burden on physicians who work hard to train great health care providers in Georgia.”

Rep. Dubnik was presented the award by GAFP President Donald L. Fordham, M.D.

“The tax credits [Rep. Dubnik] advocated will expand Georgia’s physician workforce, and it’s desperately needed,” said Dr. Donald L. Fordham. “They echo our purpose as an organization, that all Georgians can have access to high quality healthcare regardless of zip code. I thank [Rep. Dubnik] on behalf of our 3,200 members for [his] leadership and grit in sponsoring this innovative solution to bring homegrown clinicians to our state.”

The Preceptor Tax Incentive Program (PTIP) Act, or House Bill 287, was introduced by Rep. Dubnik during the 2019 legislative session. The bill, which passed with bipartisan support in both legislative chambers, grants state tax credits not just to licensed physicians training future doctors, as was implemented in a 2014 law that gave tax deductions instead of credits, but also to medical students, advanced practice registered nurses and physician assistants who receive no financial compensation for their work as instructors or preceptors. Governor Brian Kemp signed HB 287 on April 25, 2019, and the legislation went into effect on July 1, 2019, as the new PTIP.