University of Washington leaders got validation Friday on their plans to double the size of their medical program in Spokane. It’s the most recent fuel in a debate between U-W and Washington State University over medical education.
The report outlines cost-benefit impacts of medical education options in Spokane. Tripp Umbach reports that expanding U-W’s program is the most cost-effective way to grow the state’s medical workforce. Second, the firm says developing a new independent medical school is currently the most expensive option to growing this workforce. In fact, spokesperson Paul Umbach says eastern Washington cannot feasibly support two medical schools due to a lack of training sites, like residencies.
Umbach: “That we would have graduates that would be leaving the community to complete their training. That would have no real impact on the economics of the community because one of the biggest drivers of economic impact is doctors that stay in practice in a community.”
UW President Michael Young also spoke at a press conference in Spokane, saying the school’s commitment to the Spokane community is deep. He did not lay out a plan for how the school will secure more residency slots, but says they are discussing it with state lawmakers.
WSU president Elson Floyd responded to the study with a statement Friday. He said a UW expansion is not enough. He says, quote, “we believe we must also pursue a new medical school at Washington State University. Only by doing both can we serve the people of Washington appropriately."
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