The University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix is teaming up with Onvida Health to open Arizona’s first rural medical school in Yuma County. This program addresses a serious issue: the shortage of doctors in rural areas. Starting in July 2026, students can enroll in a three-year Primary Care Accelerated Pathway that leads to an M.D. degree. What’s unique about this program is that all clinical training will take place at Onvida Health.
Initially, the program will accept 15 students each year for the first three years, with full tuition scholarships generously provided by Onvida Health. The Yuma branch will support up to 300 rotations every year, opening doors for students across various disciplines to gain hands-on experience.
Robert J. Trenschel, the president and CEO of Onvida Health, highlighted the importance of this partnership. “This marks a defining moment for rural health care in Arizona,” he said. “By bringing medical education to Yuma County, we’re not just training physicians, we’re investing in our community’s health for the long run.” This commitment to local education can have a lasting impact, making quality healthcare more accessible.
Statistics show that nearly 70% of Arizona’s Health Professional Shortage Areas are in rural regions. This program aims to improve access to primary care and help bolster long-term health in these communities. Experts believe that local training not only helps fill gaps in healthcare but also encourages graduates to stay and serve in the areas where they were educated, helping to build sustainable healthcare systems.
The initiative reflects a growing trend in medical education. In many states, institutions are creating tailored solutions to local healthcare needs. By focusing on rural education, Arizona is taking significant steps toward improving health outcomes in underserved areas.
For those interested in learning more, you can read further details [here](https://phoenixmed.arizona.edu/newsroom/news/u-college-medicine-phoenix-and-onvida-health-announce-groundbreaking-rural-health).
