A groundbreaking proposal to establish Oregon's first public osteopathic medical school in Klamath Falls is gaining momentum, aiming to address the critical shortage of primary care physicians in rural areas. During a recent meeting of the House Committee on Higher Education and Workforce Development, stakeholders highlighted the urgent need for a new pipeline of healthcare providers to serve the state's underserved communities.

Sky Lakes Medical Center, in partnership with Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), has been training family medicine residents for over 30 years, with more than 80% of graduates choosing to practice in rural settings. This success underscores the potential impact of a dedicated medical school in the region. The proposed school would leverage the strengths of Oregon Tech, known for its robust health and bio health programs, to create a curriculum infused with technology and artificial intelligence.

Dr. Nagy, a key advocate for the initiative, emphasized that nearly half of graduates from osteopathic medical schools enter primary care, compared to only 14% from allopathic schools. This difference is attributed to the holistic training approach of osteopathic medicine, which focuses on hands-on learning. The collaboration between Oregon Tech and Sky Lakes is expected to provide students with practical clinical experiences, enhancing their readiness to serve in rural communities.

The proposal also includes plans for an accelerated program that would allow students to graduate sooner, reducing their educational debt and expediting their entry into the workforce. With 2.5 million Oregonians currently facing healthcare access challenges, the establishment of this medical school is seen as a vital step toward improving health outcomes across the state.

As the committee discussed the proposal, Representative Wright highlighted the importance of funding mechanisms, suggesting the need for scholarship programs similar to the GI Bill to attract more students into the medical field. The coalition behind the initiative is committed to pursuing a comprehensive planning study to outline the financial and operational framework for the new school, alongside a marketing campaign to support fundraising efforts.

The vision for a new osteopathic medical school in Klamath Falls represents a proactive approach to tackling Oregon's healthcare crisis, aiming to ensure that residents have access to quality medical care in their communities. The coalition's dedication to this cause reflects a broader commitment to building a healthier future for all Oregonians.