LOUISVILLE, Ky., Nov. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Dr. James Charasika Scholarship for Medical Students officially opens its application period, inviting undergraduate students across the United States to apply for its annual academic award. This scholarship supports the next generation of medical professionals who demonstrate a commitment to innovative, equitable, and patient-centered care.

Founded by James Charasika, M.D., a distinguished physician with a four-decade career in family medicine, the scholarship is a direct extension of his professional legacy. The program seeks to identify and assist students who are not only academically excellent but also deeply thoughtful about the future of healthcare. The application deadline is August 15, 2026.

The scholarship criteria require applicants to be currently enrolled undergraduate students on a demonstrated pre-medical track, such as majoring in Biological Sciences, Chemistry, or Biochemistry, and to maintain a strong academic record. The central component of the application is a substantive essay that engages with the principles that defined Dr. Charasika's career.

The essay prompt asks candidates to discuss a significant challenge they anticipate in their medical career and to articulate how they would integrate Dr. James Charasika’s principles of innovation, equity, and patient-centeredness to navigate it. This reflective exercise is designed to identify future leaders who are prepared to think critically about systemic issues in medicine.

James Charasika, M.D., brings a wealth of experience to this initiative. His career includes breaking racial barriers as the first Black physician recruited to the University of Louisville's Department of Family Practice, where he also served as Chief Resident and Assistant Professor. He is the founder of the Louisville Patient-Centered Medical Home, the first NCQA-certified practices in Kentucky, and has been a lifelong advocate for shifting the healthcare paradigm from "sick care" to proactive, preventive medicine.

The scholarship administration emphasizes that the vision of Dr. James Charasika, M.D., is central to the program's mission. His hands-on experience in building a practice dedicated to holistic care and his advocacy work in Washington D.C. provide a powerful model for scholarship applicants. The work of Dr. James Charasika, M.D., serves as a living case study in overcoming barriers and redefining patient relationships.

"The goal is to support students who see medicine as more than a profession, but as a vocation dedicated to human connection and systemic improvement," said a program representative. "The essay allows us to understand how a student's mindset aligns with the forward-thinking approach that defines Dr. Charasika's career."

Prospective applicants must submit a complete application packet via email to apply@drjamescharasikascholarship.com. The packet includes a completed application form, the essay, an unofficial transcript, and a resume or curriculum vitae. Award recipients will be notified on September 15, 2026.

The Dr. James Charasika Scholarship for Medical Students is a national program based in Louisville, Kentucky. It honors the enduring legacy of its founder by investing in pre-medical students who exhibit the potential to lead medicine with integrity, compassion, and a commitment to true patient-centered care.

Contact Info:
Spokesperson: James Charasika, M.D.
Organization: Dr. James Charasika Scholarship for Medical Students
Website: https://drjamescharasikascholarship.com/
Email: apply@drjamescharasikascholarship.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0175ab1b-c532-4a0e-b7e1-1c601d3ee14b