EyeCare Partners and Clasp partner to create a new student loan repayment program for eye care providers

The amount of relief available through EyeRise is dependent on work location, and is offered in 3 tiers. Image credit: AdobeStock/terovesalainen

EyeCare Partners has partnered with recruitment platform Clasp in order to establish a new student loan repayment program to aid in the attraction and retention of eye care providers.¹ The program, EyeRise, also provides eligible students with an in-school commitment to hire them after graduation, according to a news release.

“We are driven by the belief [that] together we can bring the absolute best eye care to communities across the US,” said Billy Parsons, chief human resources officer at EyeCare Partners, in the release. “Through this program, we aim to empower optometry and ophthalmology students to focus on their education and future eye care careers without the financial stress that often accompanies their journey.”

Additionally, the program also provides support for federal and private loans, offering comprehensive financial relief for students.¹ For optometrists, up to $45,000 to $100,000 in student loan repayment benefits are available over 3 to 4 years of employment. The amount of relief available is dependent on work location, and is offered in 3 tiers. Tier 1 provides up to $100,000 for a 4-year commitment, tier 2 is up to $75,000 for a 4-year commitment, and tier 3 is up to $45,000 for a 3-year commitment. Applying to the program requires a phone recruiter interview, phone interview with the medical director or practice administrator, and a site visit.²

Once a student has submitted an application and is selected for the program and hired by a practice, EyeCare Partners will repay the select amount of loans over a set period of future employment in accordance with the terms of the loan repayment agreement. Selected students will sync their eligible federal or private education loans on the Clasp platform. Additionally, after graduation and licensure, the student will join EyeCare Partners as a full-time hire.²

“Clasp is proud to support EyeCare Partners in their commitment to addressing eye care workforce shortage in health care,” said Tess Michaels, founder and CEO of Clasp. “This program not only provides immediate financial relief for students but also builds long-term retention and engagement, creating a sustainable talent pipeline.”

Eligibility criteria and application submission information are available on Clasp’s website.

References:

1. EyeCare Partners announces new student loan repayment program to attract and retain optometrists and ophthalmologists. News release. EyeCare Partners. April 15, 2025. Accessed April 15, 2025.

2. Optometry students: Your optometry career, backed by EyeCare Partners. EyeCare Partners. Accessed April 15, 2025. https://www.clasp.com/ecpoptometrists