UW, WSU training medical proposals

University of Washington

The plan: Double existing Spokane physician training program to 80 students per class, eventually expanding to 120; continue dedicating slots to students from Washington’s small towns; expand existing clinical training in underserved communities.

The pitch: Already one of the nation’s top medical schools; current faculty includes three Nobel laureates; ranked best in nation for primary care, family and rural practice medicine; described as most cost-effective option at $70,000 per student.

Challenges: Struggled to fill its second-year Spokane class, sending just nine instead of the planned 20 students, triggering doubt among some Spokane community leaders about its commitment.

Washington State

The plan: Establish a Spokane-based WSU medical school in existing facilities on Riverpoint campus to train up to 120 students per class.

The pitch: No capital investment needed; partner with existing rural hospitals to create community-based training centers for student clinical training to complement rather than compete with UW’s model.

Challenges: No experience operating a medical school; accreditation could take years; must persuade Legislature to find startup money in tough budget times and eventually commit to ongoing operating costs.

David Wasson