Great Falls Area Chamber of Commerce

61 Great Falls Area Chamber of Commerce www.greatfallschamber.org M E D I C A L Touro University Montana College of Osteopathic Medicine Opening day for Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine (TouroCOM) in Great Falls is almost here, they are set to welcome its inaugural class in July 2023. Construction on our new campus is near completion, student and faculty recruitment are in full swing and we fully expect to seat a class of one-hundred twenty-five this July. Under the leadership of Founding Dean Elizabeth Palmarozzi, DO, orientation programs are planned for both students and faculty. A White Coat Ceremony and ribbon cutting is set for August 7 on the new campus. TouroCOM in Great Falls will be the University's sixth medical school campus. The University System's existing national footprint of top-tier medical schools currently includes an allopathic medical school, New York Medical College, and four colleges of osteopathic medicine located in Nevada, California, and in Harlem and Middletown, New York. Touro University is a national leader in medical and health education and is uniquely positioned to help address the rural doctor shortage and support minority representation in the medical profession. Approximately 30% of the current student body in Touro's osteopathic medical schools is comprised of underrepresented minorities, 55% of graduates practice in underserved communities, and 60% enter the field of primary care. Touro medical schools are creating culturally competent workforces serving their local communities. In Montana, Touro aims to increase representation of Native American students in the classrooms, while also promoting primary care presence in the small rural communities. Healthcare Crisis in Montana Montana is experiencing a healthcare crisis due to a shortage of medical professionals and lack of access to care for American Indians and rural residents. Eleven of the 56 counties in the state lack a practicing physician and 52 counties are identified as areas with health profession shortages. The physician shortage in the state will escalate in the next few years if no action is taken to remedy the situation. As local physicians age and demand for healthcare rises, the need for Montana to educate and retain healthcare professionals within the state is critical. TouroCOM in Great Falls is poised and ready to address the national and statewide healthcare crisis. The University will provide medical education opportunities and access to care for residents across Montana, including rural and tribal populations. Studies show that many students tend to start their professional careers in states where they have either Photo: Scott Photography

• Cover