The University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix is teaming up with Onvida Health to launch Arizona’s first regional medical school branch in Yuma County. This partnership aims to tackle the significant shortage of doctors in rural areas of the state.
University President Suresh Garimella expressed excitement about extending the innovative M.D. program to Yuma. He noted, “It’s vital to ensure qualified healthcare professionals are available in rural communities for Arizona’s future.”
Starting this July, the College will introduce a three-year Primary Care Accelerated Pathway, where students will spend their first 18 months in Phoenix learning foundational sciences and the next 18 months in Yuma for hands-on clinical training. Up to 45 students will be admitted each year, with full tuition covered by Onvida Health, which is a significant investment in local healthcare.
Dr. Robert J. Trenschel, president and CEO of Onvida Health, emphasized this initiative as a turning point for rural healthcare, stating it’s not just about training physicians; it’s also about fostering long-term health in the community.
According to the Arizona Graduate Medical Education Policy Brief, the state needs around 500 additional primary care doctors to meet current healthcare demands. This shortage is evident, especially in rural areas, with nearly 70% of communities deemed as Health Professional Shortage Areas.
Dr. Fred Wondisford, dean of the College of Medicine – Phoenix, noted the partnership builds on an existing relationship with Onvida Health, which has been a clinical training partner for over a decade. He is optimistic about expanding clerkship opportunities and easing the path from medical school to residency.
Since 2013, Onvida Health has worked to address the doctor shortage in Yuma, focusing on family medicine through their residency program. Their collaboration with the University of Arizona will enhance these efforts significantly.
Onvida Health plans to invest $32.9 million over the next eight years to fund the program and support the Yuma branch’s development. Dr. Kristina Diaz, president of Onvida Health Medical Group, highlighted that 34% of their family medicine residents have chosen to stay in the community post-graduation, reflecting the program’s success and demand.
This partnership stands out not just in training new doctors but also in creating a sustainable solution for healthcare access in rural Arizona. As the state strives to meet healthcare needs, efforts like this are crucial for improving community health for generations to come.
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