If funds are available in the chiropractic loan repayment fund created under section 3702.9810 of the Revised Code and the general assembly has appropriated the funds for the program, the director of health shall approve an applicant for participation in the program on finding in accordance with the priorities established under section 3702.983 of the Revised Code that the applicant is eligible for participation and is needed in a chiropractic health resource shortage area.

On approving an application, the director shall notify and enter into discussions with the applicant. The object of the discussions is to facilitate recruitment of the applicant to a site within a chiropractic health resource shortage area at which, according to the priorities established under section 3702.983 of the Revised Code, the applicant is needed.

The director may refer the applicant to the Ohio state chiropractic association, or its successor organization, for assistance with the applicant’s recruitment and placement.

If the director and applicant agree on the applicant’s placement at a particular site within a chiropractic health resource shortage area, the applicant shall sign and deliver to the director a letter of intent agreeing to that placement.