#USA #Lebanon #Oregon #Western University #COMP-Northwest

Expanding Health Care Education at Western University

Western University of Health Sciences, known as WesternU, has made significant strides in bolstering health care education in the Pacific Northwest. Recently, the university was gifted an incredible 150 acres of land in Lebanon, Oregon. This generous donation is a cornerstone for the university's ambitious plans to expand its campus and develop new graduate programs, specifically aimed at addressing regional health care needs.

A Historic Philanthropic Gift

The acquisition of this vast expanse not only represents a milestone in WesternU's growth but also aligns with its long-term vision to enhance health care education in Oregon and beyond. With this new land, the university aims to broaden its offerings, particularly in behavioral health, which is essential given the increasing demand for mental health services in the region.

WesternU's Lebanon campus is currently home to two prominent colleges: the College of Health Sciences-Northwest (CHS-Northwest) and the College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific-Northwest (COMP-Northwest). Founded in 2011, COMP-Northwest is notable for being the only osteopathic medical school in Oregon, conferring doctorate degrees to over 1,000 alumni across the nation. It serves a crucial role in addressing the shortage of primary care physicians, with a significant portion of its graduates staying to practice in the Pacific Northwest.

Promoting Primary Care in Oregon

In recent years, WesternU has taken meaningful steps to tackle the urgent need for family medicine providers in the area. A recent statistic revealed that 60% of COMP-Northwest graduates working in primary care remain in the Pacific Northwest, with 68% located in Oregon. Their notable achievement of a 100% residency placement rate is a testament to the quality and dedication of their programs, particularly as 57% of these students entered primary care specialties. Moreover, U.S. News & World Report has recognized COMP-Northwest as a Tier 1 medical school for primary care, making it one of only 16 medical schools nationwide to hold such a distinction.

To further develop the health care workforce, WesternU is actively working to create more residency opportunities in the region, acknowledging that clinicians often choose to stay in the communities where they complete their training.

Enhancing Education Through Engagement

In addition to expanding physical space, WesternU is committed to providing quality education through innovative approaches. The newly established Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at CHS-Northwest emphasizes hands-on learning, with students collaborating with community members in Practical Application Labs (PALs) to enhance their educational experiences and foster community relationships.

Comprehensive Master Plan

As plans for the 150 acres unfold, a master plan will be developed that focuses on sustainable practices, including utilizing Oregon's natural resources and implementing net-zero construction principles. Furthermore, the university will be launching the Interprofessional Behavioral Health Institute, aimed at tackling mental health challenges and enhancing educational efforts in this critical field.

This multifaceted approach demonstrates WesternU's dedication to shaping a healthcare future that ensures everyone has access to high-quality, compassionate care. To support these ambitious expansions and new program developments, WesternU is planning to launch a comprehensive fundraising campaign.

About Western University of Health Sciences

Founded in Pomona, California, Western University of Health Sciences is an independent nonprofit institution dedicated to advancing health professions education. The university offers a range of degrees, including in osteopathic medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and physical therapy, among others. As WesternU continues to evolve, it remains committed to providing the best collaborative healthcare services, nurturing skilled professionals for the future.