Medford Eyes Medical School Collaboration with OHSU to Combat Doctor Shortage
Medford, Oregon is exploring the advancement of a regional medical school campus in collaboration with Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) to address the growing need for physicians in the Rogue Valley and surrounding areas [[1]]. The proposal has garnered support from Medford City Council members who see it as a significant benefit to the community.
The Vision for a Medford Medical School
The proposed medical school, potentially affiliated with OHSU, woudl offer a training ground for aspiring doctors, complete with facilities such as a cadaver lab. If realized, Medford would become one of the few cities in the region with a medical school, bridging the gap between Portland and Sacramento [[SOURCE]].
Did You Know? The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) projects a shortage of up to 124,000 physicians by 2034, highlighting the urgent need for more medical training facilities.
The tripp Umbach Study: Feasibility and Benefits
Consulting firm Tripp Umbach conducted a market evaluation and feasibility study, commissioned by the city, wich was presented during a City Council Study Session on June 11 [[2]]. Paul Umbach, founder and president of the firm, emphasized the importance of training doctors locally to retain them in the area. He noted that a significant percentage of students who complete medical school and residency in a particular region tend to stay there.
The proposed campus would require a building of approximately 60,000 square feet [[2]].Umbach’s firm has experience in establishing new medical schools across the country, including one in Great Falls, Montana, which has a smaller population than Medford [[2]].
OHSU’s Role and Motivation
OHSU’s potential involvement is crucial to the success of the Medford medical school. julie Chmiel, executive vice president and managing senior principal for Tripp Umbach, explained that OHSU’s mission includes training doctors to serve the entire state, particularly rural regions [[2]]. While OHSU doesn’t currently have satellite medical school locations outside of Portland, it does offer nursing programs in other areas [[2]].
Pro Tip: Establishing residency programs at local hospitals is vital to ensure that doctors remain in the region after completing their training.
Financial Considerations and Funding Avenues
The financial implications of establishing a medical school are significant. Potential funding sources include city land contributions, philanthropic efforts, naming rights, participation from existing medical facilities, and support from the state legislature [[2]].
Addressing the physician shortage
Southern Oregon has experienced a shortage of medical professionals in recent years, with clinics closing and doctors leaving the area [[2]]. The Medford City Council has taken steps to address this issue, including approving grants to recruit primary care providers [[2]].A local medical school could provide a long-term solution by training and retaining physicians in the region.
Next steps
Medford city manager Rob field indicated that meetings have been scheduled with community stakeholders interested in the medical school project [[2]]. Further work will be conducted before presenting a recommended path forward to the City Council [[2]].
Projected Timeline
| Phase | Estimated Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Memorandum of Understanding with OHSU | Next few months |
| Design and Construction | 2-3 years |
| Operational Start (Third and Fourth Year Students) | Few years after construction |
What are the biggest challenges you foresee in establishing a medical school in Medford?
How can the community best support this initiative to ensure its success?
