There are some (my guy got one), but they’re usually minor and don’t cover all the bills even if they cover some of tuition.
What many who can’t pay for it do is take out loans for the cost (tuition, living costs, etc). Then, at this point (could change down the road), it’s possible to sign up for loan forgiveness. His school, or maybe residency, talked him through it this past summer. Loans get paid based on income for 10 years, then the rest are forgiven if they work at a non-profit for the entire time. My guy’s residency counts for the non-profit, so that’s four years. Afterward if he were to decide he wanted to practice elsewhere, he can, but he’s responsible for the entire loan bill. Otherwise, he goes non-profit for six more years, then can go wherever he likes. It seemed like a no-brainer to sign up since he can change his mind. It also keeps his loan repayments affordable during his residency years.
His house-mate through med school went the military route. His med school was completely paid for by the Army and now he’s in residency with them, albeit not in his first (or second) choice specialty. He owes them a certain number of years, but I’m not sure how many. It can be looked into if it appeals.
It’s a lot of debt, so I understand the caution. Been there, done that, and now with a very happy resident doctor who doesn’t mind because he’s doing what he loves.
Your guy will have to see what his options are down the road, but right now doctors are still needed so there are a few programs to help if the “trade off” is ok.