Amid a growing healthcare provider shortage in Polk County, Florida Polytechnic University and the Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine have announced a new six-year accelerated medical degree program designed to fast-track the next generation of doctors.
In Polk County, reports show that they have half as many doctors, dentists, and pediatricians per 100,000 residents as the state average. This shortage has been linked to a rapid growth in the population.
They also report a notable increase in emergency room visits linked to non-emergent care and general chronic disease management due to the absence of primary care access.
With the new initiative, students will be able to complete both a Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree in just six years — compared to the traditional eight years (four for undergrad, four for medical school), not including residency.
The accelerated curriculum will assist students in getting both degrees needed by addressing physician shortages while making medical education accessible.
The hopes of the new program are that, by limiting entry to high-achieving students and eliminating the MCAT requirement, the program will be able to produce local physicians faster, more affordably, and in greater alignment with Florida’s rapidly growing healthcare needs.