TriState Health Secures $1 Million for New Residency Program
TriState Health will receive $1 million in federal funding to support its upcoming Family Medicine Residency Program. This initiative, developed in collaboration with the Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine at Washington State University, is projected to commence between 2028 and 2035, with a capacity to accommodate nine students. The program is essential for fulfilling residency requirements necessary for medical licensure across all fifty states.
The funding is part of the Agriculture Appropriations Bill, championed by U.S. Representative Michael Baumgartner, with backing from U.S. Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell. According to TriState Health, this financial support will play a crucial role in enhancing access to healthcare services in the region.
Strengthening Healthcare Access
Kym Clift, CEO of TriState Health, emphasized the importance of the residency program, calling it a vital investment for the community. “Family physicians are the backbone of community health,” she stated. Clift expressed gratitude towards their congressional partners for recognizing the urgent need to bolster the rural healthcare workforce.
The United States faces a significant physician shortage, particularly in rural areas, which impacts many communities served by TriState Health. The situation is similarly dire in neighboring Idaho, which has consistently ranked lowest in the nation for physicians per capita. Data from the American Medical Association indicates that nearly 60% of physicians tend to practice within 100 miles of their residency, highlighting the need for local training opportunities.
This funding initiative not only aims to prepare future family physicians but also seeks to address the broader issue of healthcare accessibility in underserved areas. By investing in medical education and training within the community, TriState Health aims to create a sustainable healthcare environment that meets local needs.
The establishment of the Family Medicine Residency Program marks a significant step forward in addressing the healthcare challenges faced by rural populations. With the support of federal funding and local partnerships, TriState Health is poised to make a meaningful impact on healthcare delivery in the region.
