The Physicians Benevolent Fund

Caring For Our Own

Physicians dedicate their lives to helping their patients, but sometimes physicians are the ones who find themselves in need of care.

Since 1961, TMA's Physicians Benevolent Fund has helped physicians by offering financial assistance – during times of dire financial need, for treatment or disabling conditions, and when natural disasters strike.

Donate to the PBF

Apply for Assistance

Three Funds to Direct Your Support

We can't predict who will need help next, so please consider donating today to one of three charitable funds set up to help Texas physicians. 

The Physicians Benevolent Fund

PBF provides financial assistance to Texas physicians and their families who have fallen on hard times and cannot meet their day-to-day needs. Through the years, the fund has helped physicians who are elderly and no longer practicing medicine, become disabled or ill, and are widowed and raising families.

Your gift provides monthly, life-saving support when physicians face adversity beyond their control. In times of personal crisis, this fund provides relief from mounting healthcare bills, basic utilities, living expenses, and other necessities.

PBF Wellness Fund

PBF Wellness Fund provides financial assistance to licensed Texas physicians who cannot afford short-term treatment for wellness issues potentially affecting their ability to practice medicine safely. Funds also may cover the family's household expenses while the physician is receiving treatment.

Your gift can help physicians rebuild their career during a difficult time.

PBF Disaster Relief Fund

When natural disaster strikes, TMA’s PBF Disaster Relief Fund provides financial support to help Texas physicians recover and rebuild. The fund activates upon Federal disaster declarations, such as Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Rita.

Your donations allow TMA to respond quickly to aid physicians after Mother Nature delivers a blow.

Eligibility and Application  Process

Confidential Applicant Questionnaire

Applications are reviewed by The Physicians Benevolent Fund Committee in May and September, with emergency cases considered in the interim. If eligible, a home visit is scheduled to determine extent of need and the best supports.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Applicants must be current residents of Texas.
• Physicians must be in good standing with the Texas Medical Board.
• Applicants cannot hold more than 150% of Health and Human Services thresholds in liquid assets. Liquid assets are those readily convertible into cash, including savings, bonds, stocks or shares, certificates of deposit, and retirement accounts. (In 2021, a household of two cannot hold more than $26,130 in liquid assets.) HHS Threshold Requirements