Yuma, Arizona, December 9, 2025
The University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix, in collaboration with Onvida Health, is launching Arizona’s inaugural rural medical school branch in Yuma County. This initiative aims to alleviate the physician shortage by providing training for primary care physicians in underserved areas. Beginning in July 2026, the program will offer 15 annual admissions, with full scholarships funded by Onvida Health. The unique curriculum incorporates 18 months of foundational sciences in Phoenix followed by 18 months of clinical training in Yuma, emphasizing community healthcare needs.
Arizona’s First Rural Medical School Branch Opens in Yuma
New partnership aims to combat physician shortage in underserved areas
Yuma, Arizona – The University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix and Onvida Health have announced a pivotal partnership to establish Arizona’s first rural regional medical school branch in Yuma County. This significant initiative seeks to address the state’s pressing physician shortage by focusing on the training of primary care physicians in underserved areas. Set to commence in July 2026, the program is designed to provide accessible medical education tailored specifically for rural healthcare needs.
The three-year accelerated degree program will offer clinical training primarily conducted at Onvida Health in Yuma, with admissions capped at 15 students each year. Onvida Health is stepping up to champion this cause, generously funding full tuition scholarships for incoming students. The curriculum will consist of 18 months of foundational sciences delivered in Phoenix, followed by a hands-on 18 months of clinical training across eight core specialties in Yuma.
Investment in Community Health
Onvida Health is committing $32.9 million over the next eight years to support this groundbreaking program. This financial investment further solidifies their dedication to community-centered care and highlights the growing need for healthcare professionals in rural regions. The initiative builds on Onvida Health’s existing Family and Community Medicine Residency Program, which has been actively addressing the physician shortage in Yuma since 2013.
Collaborative Commitment
This partnership exemplifies a shared commitment among stakeholders to foster a healthier future while tackling the increasing demand for primary care physicians in underserved communities. It reflects a broader effort to create sustainable solutions for healthcare accessibility and quality in regions often overlooked by traditional healthcare infrastructure.
Pathway to Medical Education
The program’s structure highlights a strategic approach to training. By immersing students in the practical realities of rural healthcare from early on, the program aims to enhance the chances of graduates remaining in the area to serve the community. This kind of local investment in education not only cultivates a skilled workforce but also reinforces community ties, ultimately benefiting patient care.
Looking Ahead
Scheduled to begin accepting its first cohort of students in July 2026, this partnership will mark a transformative step for rural healthcare in Arizona. The endeavor aims to ensure that Yuma County and its surrounding regions have improved access to high-quality healthcare for future generations.
The Impact of Rural Medical Education
This new medical school branch represents more than just educational opportunity; it is a significant stride towards bridging healthcare gaps in rural Arizona. By training local talent to work in their own communities, this initiative can enhance both healthcare outcomes and local economies, illustrating how entrepreneurial innovation can drive change.
As we look forward to the future of healthcare in Yuma and beyond, it is imperative that communities rally together to support such transformative initiatives. Encouraging local involvement and fostering dialogues about regional needs will be essential in maximizing the benefits of this new educational program.
Conclusion
The partnership between the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix and Onvida Health represents a key response to the physician shortage affecting rural Arizona. As they embark on this exciting journey, the potential for improving healthcare access and quality for underserved communities will undoubtedly pave the way for a healthier and more prosperous future.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the new medical school branch in Yuma?
The partnership aims to address the state’s physician shortage by training primary care physicians in underserved areas.
When will the program start?
The program is scheduled to begin in July 2026, with the first cohort of students admitted in that month.
How much is Onvida Health investing in the program?
Onvida Health is investing $32.9 million over eight years to support the program.
How many students will be admitted each year?
Each year, up to 15 students will be admitted to the program.
Where will the clinical training take place?
The clinical training will be based at Onvida Health in Yuma, covering eight core specialties.
Key Features of the Partnership
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Partnership | University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix and Onvida Health |
| Location | Yuma County, Arizona |
| Start Date | July 2026 |
| Students Admitted per Year | Up to 15 |
| Investment by Onvida Health | $32.9 million over eight years |
| Program Structure | 18 months in Phoenix and 18 months of clinical training in Yuma |
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