News Summary
The University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix has announced a partnership with Onvida Health to establish a new medical school branch in Yuma, Arizona. This initiative aims to address the physician shortage in rural areas by launching a three-year Primary Care Accelerated Pathway (PCAP) program in July 2026. The program focuses on training students to serve underserved communities in Arizona, combining academic education with practical experience in local healthcare settings.
Phoenix, AZ — The University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix announces a groundbreaking partnership with Onvida Health to establish a new medical school branch in Yuma, Arizona. This initiative is designed to combat the physician shortage in the state, particularly in rural areas, by offering dedicated medical education and training tailored to the needs of underserved communities. Beginning in July 2026, the new three-year Primary Care Accelerated Pathway (PCAP) program will significantly enhance educational opportunities and workforce retention in the region.
The inception of the Yuma branch marks a historic milestone as the University of Arizona becomes the first state medical school with a regional branch located in rural Arizona. This innovative approach to medical education aims to provide students with both foundational knowledge and hands-on training in critical healthcare settings within their communities.
Strategic Objectives of the PCAP Program
The Primary Care Accelerated Pathway program emphasizes training for primary care physicians who are committed to serving rural, tribal, and underserved populations in Arizona. This program follows a distinctive “3+3” model, integrating three years of medical education with a subsequent three years of residency training. This structure is aimed at aligning educational outcomes with healthcare needs, fostering a new generation of physicians who are ready to make a meaningful impact on community health.
First Cohort and Program Structure
The inaugural cohort of students for the PCAP program is set to matriculate in July 2026. Students will initially complete their basic science curriculum at the Phoenix campus before transitioning to Yuma for their clinical rotations. This model ensures that students are adequately prepared with essential medical knowledge while also providing crucial clinical exposure and experience in the communities they will serve.
State Support and Funding
The establishment of the new medical school branch is supported by the Arizona State Legislature, which has allocated $7 million in funding for fiscal year 2026. This investment underlines the commitment to expanding healthcare education and services in Yuma, directly addressing the challenges posed by the healthcare workforce shortage in the region.
University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix: A Legacy of Excellence
The University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix, founded in 2007, is dedicated to advancing health and wellness through education, research, and patient care. The college collaborates with various clinical partners, including Banner Health and the Southern Arizona VA Health Care System, which enhances the training quality and real-world preparedness of its students.
Community Impact and Yuma’s Rich Heritage
Yuma, located in southwestern Arizona, is not only home to the new medical school branch but also boasts a rich history and cultural significance. Known for historical sites such as the Yuma Territorial Prison and the Yuma Quartermaster Depot State Historic Park, Yuma serves as a vital center for military activities and community engagement, further emphasizing the importance of establishing a medical branch in the area that provides vital healthcare resources.
Key Takeaways and Future Outlook
The partnership between the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix and Onvida Health heralds a new era of medical education aimed at alleviating the physician shortage in Arizona. The innovative PCAP program is set to not only enhance educational opportunities for future physicians but also significantly improve healthcare access for underserved communities. As the program progresses towards its first cohort, stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed and support this vital initiative that promises to strengthen healthcare in Arizona.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the new medical school branch in Yuma?
- The University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix has partnered with Onvida Health to establish a medical school branch in Yuma, Arizona, offering a three-year Primary Care Accelerated Pathway (PCAP) program.
- When will the first cohort of students begin the PCAP program?
- The first cohort is set to matriculate in July 2026.
- What is the focus of the PCAP program?
- The program is designed for students interested in practicing primary care in rural, tribal, and underserved communities in Arizona.
- How is the PCAP program structured?
- The program follows a “3+3” model, combining three years of medical school with three years of residency.
- What is the funding for the new medical school branch?
- The Arizona State Legislature allocated $7 million in FY 2026 to the University of Arizona for the construction of a regional medical center in Yuma, supporting the establishment and operation of the medical school branch.
- What is the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix?
- Founded in 2007, the college is committed to advancing health and wellness through education, research, and patient care, collaborating with various clinical partners to provide exceptional training and real-world medical solutions.
- What is Yuma known for?
- Yuma is known for its rich history and cultural significance, hosting historical sites like the Yuma Territorial Prison and the Yuma Quartermaster Depot State Historic Park, as well as military activities at the Marine Corps Air Station Yuma and the Yuma Proving Ground.
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Partnership | University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix and Onvida Health |
| Location | Yuma, Arizona |
| Program | Three-year Primary Care Accelerated Pathway (PCAP) |
| First Cohort Matriculation | July 2026 |
| Program Focus | Primary care in rural, tribal, and underserved communities in Arizona |
| Program Structure | “3+3” model: three years of medical school and three years of residency |
| State Funding | $7 million allocated in FY 2026 for construction of regional medical center in Yuma |
| University’s Mission | Advancing health and wellness through education, research, and patient care |
| Yuma’s Significance | Rich history, cultural sites, and military activities |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Suspect Arrested in Domestic Violence Homicide in Phoenix
Phoenix Leads the Way in Healthcare Technology Innovation
Tragic Fatal Crash Linked to High Blood Alcohol Content in Gilbert
Exploring the Top-Ranked High Schools in Phoenix: A Comprehensive Guide
Motorcycle Crash in Phoenix Sends Two to Hospital
University of Arizona’s Veterinary College Gains Recognition
Upcoming Health Events in Phoenix, AZ – November 2025
Phoenix Man Critically Injured in Hotel Shooting
Exploring the Top Public High Schools in Phoenix: A Comprehensive Guide
10 Must-Know Tips for Understanding Neighborhood Amenities Before Buying Your First Home
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
