Finger Lakes Performing Provider System (FLPPS) is leading regional implementation of the 1115 Waiver NYS Department of Health Career Pathways Training (CPT) Program across Western New York, the Finger Lakes, and part of the Southern Tier. The CPT Program provides a powerful opportunity through tuition and educational expense support for individuals to launch or advance careers in health, behavioral health, and social care – while supporting healthcare employers by addressing workforce shortages and expanding access to care.
As the designated Workforce Investment Organization (WIO) managing the CPT Program for this region, FLPPS is partnering with a diverse network of educational institutions, training providers, and employers to facilitate education, training, and employment opportunities, working together to strengthen and diversify the healthcare workforce.
“The CPT Program offers a critical solution to both individuals and employers in New York State,” said Carol Tegas, CEO of FLPPS. “By creating pathways to meaningful careers in health, behavioral health, and social care, we’re helping people reach their professional goals while strengthening the workforce that our communities rely on.”
The CPT Program creates a dual impact – offering individuals the opportunity to pursue in-demand careers while helping employers build a skilled, committed workforce to meet the growing demand for essential care roles.
For individuals who meet eligibility requirements, the program opens the door to meaningful, in-demand careers in health, behavioral health, and social care – without the burden of student debt. The CPT Program provides tuition funding after financial aid is applied, as well as funding for books, supplies, and other academic-related fees. In addition to financial support, participants benefit from support services – including educational case management, academic readiness, job placement support, and more. Participants must attend participating educational and training institutions that offer programs across the region and complete their program by Spring 2027.
The CPT Program is open to both individuals new to the industry, as well as those currently working in health, behavioral health, or social care who seek to advance their careers. As part of the program, participants commit to a three-year, full-time service term – beginning after they complete their education – at a NYS Medicaid-enrolled provider that services at least 30% Medicaid and/or uninsured individuals.
There are 13 eligible job titles that program participants may pursue:
•Professional technical: Physician Assistant, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Master of Social Work, Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor, Certified Pharmacy Technician, Certified Medical Assistant, Respiratory Therapist, Certified Medical Assistant, Mental Health Counselor, Community Health Worker
•Nursing: Licensed Practical Nurse, Associate Registered Nurse, Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Nurse Practitioner
•Frontline Public Health Worker: Community Health Worker, Patient Care Manager
At the same time, the CPT Program supports employers by helping to build a pipeline of qualified, committed professionals ready to serve in high-need areas. As workforce shortages continue to affect access to care, the CPT Program is helping meet demand and plan for a more stable, sustainable future.
New York State-enrolled providers that serve at least 30% Medicaid and/or uninsured individuals are eligible to become qualified service sites for the CPT Program. These providers may include those that fall into the categories of health, behavioral health, and organizations that are part of established New York State Social Care Networks (SCNs). More information on the SCNs can be found at https://www.health.ny.gov/health_care/medicaid/redesign/sdh/scn/index.htm.
“We’re building momentum toward a stronger, more sustainable system – one that creates opportunity and addresses long-standing workforce challenges,” Tegas added.
Both participants and employers interested in participating must meet specific eligibility requirements. For more information, visit www.healthcareersnow.org/cpt.
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