(a) If the board determines that the number of first-year residency positions proposed by eligible applicants under Sections 58A.023 and 58A.024 exceeds the number of first-year residency positions for which grant funding under those sections is appropriated, in awarding grants under those sections the board shall prioritize the awarding of new grants to medical specialties determined by the board to be at critical shortage levels.
(b) In determining critical shortage levels under this section, the board shall consider:
(1) the available results of research conducted by the center under § 105.009, Health and Safety Code;
(2) other relevant research and criteria, including research and criteria related to the designation of health professional shortage areas; and
(3) research performed by other appropriate entities.