Rural Health Initiative - Medical School

Transforming Rural Health in Oregon

2.5 million Oregonians in crisis.

One innovative solution: A new public College of Osteopathic Medicine designed to provide healthcare where you need it

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Oregon Tech is launching a Rural Health Initiative to transform healthcare access across our state. Our vision: a new public College of Osteopathic Medicine designed to address the critical provider shortage in rural communities through innovative, technology-infused medical education.

The Problem

Rural Health Care in Oregon faces significant challenges, including a critical shortage of healthcare providers, particularly in primary care.

Residents in rural areas often experience poorer health outcomes and shorter life expectancies compared to their urban counterparts

2.5 Million

Oregonians live in areas designated as Health Professional Shortage Areas

4 Years

Shorter life expectancy for rural Oregonians compared to urban residents

1.75×

Higher suicide rates in rural Oregon compared to urban areas

The Solution

The Rural Health Care initiative in Oregon aims to address the critical shortage of healthcare providers in rural areas, which are designated Health Provider Shortage Areas (HPSAs) for primary care. This initiative aims to train healthcare providers within these communities, as those who complete their education or residency in rural settings are more likely to remain or return to those areas.

By improving access to healthcare, the initiative seeks to enhance health outcomes for rural populations and reduce the strain on urban medical systems as well.

The top 10 ranked medical schools with the highest percent of graduates working in primary care are all Osteopathic

5×

Physicians who train in rural settings are five times more likely to practice there

$1.62

Economic return for every $1 invested in medical education

A Public Osteopathic Medical School at Oregon Tech

Address critical workforce shortages in rural healthcare
Reduce healthcare inequities between rural and urban Oregon
Create a pipeline of physicians trained specifically for rural practice
Leverage technology and innovation for more efficient medical education
Generate significant economic impact across Oregon
Improve health outcomes for all Oregonians

Why Oregon Tech, Klamath Falls?

Strategic Location: Based in rural southern Oregon with a statewide presence
Healthcare Legacy: Nearly 50% of Oregon Tech graduates work in health-related fields
Innovative Approach: Technology-infused curriculum with options for accelerated graduation
Osteopathic Focus: Emphasis on primary care where rural Oregon needs it most
Strong Partnerships: Collaboration with Sky Lakes Medical Center and clinical affiliations statewide
Economic Impact: Potential to generate $1 billion annually for the southern Oregon economy

"The Oregon Tech Medical School represents a transformative investment in our state's future. Economic analysis shows it will not only address our critical healthcare provider shortage but also generate millions of dollars in economic activity every year. This is about creating healthier communities and a stronger economy for rural Oregon—the definition of a win-win proposition."
- David Cauble, Present & CEO, Sky Lakes Medical Center; Trustee, Oregon Tech Board of Trustees