Conemaugh Nason Medical Center signs affiliation agreement with IUP proposed college of osteopathic medicine

Conemaugh Nason Medical Center formalized a clinical training affiliation agreement with Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) to support students at IUP’s proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine. This partnership marks a significant step in enhancing medical education and addressing healthcare needs in rural Pennsylvania. 

IUP’s Council of Trustees endorsed the exploration of developing a College of Osteopathic Medicine in December 2022. The university has since initiated the accreditation process through the American Osteopathic Association’s Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation, a multi-year effort involving feasibility studies, self-assessments, and site visits. 

The establishment of clinical training sites is an essential component of the accreditation process. Typically, osteopathic medical students complete their first two years in classroom-based education, followed by two years of hands-on clinical training at affiliated healthcare institutions. Through this agreement, Conemaugh Nason Medical Center will play a vital role in providing students with real-world, hands-on learning experiences in a diverse clinical environment. 

The official signing ceremony took place at Conemaugh Nason Medical Center on Tuesday, February 25, with key representatives including Founding Dean of the proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Miko Rose, Associate Dean of Clinical Affairs Dr. Ryan Smith, CEO and Market President of Conemaugh Health System Rodney Reider, Conemaugh Nason Medical Center’s Chief Operating Officer Michelle Buttry, and Medical Director of the Emergency Department at Conemaugh Nason Dr. John Baker. 

“We are thrilled to collaborate with IUP in training the next generation of physicians,” said Michelle Buttry. “This partnership emphasizes our commitment to providing high-quality healthcare in rural Pennsylvania and ensuring that future physicians acquire essential clinical experience in a community-focused setting.” 

Dr. Rose emphasized the significance of the partnership in aligning with the mission of IUP’s proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine. “Conemaugh Nason Medical Center has a strong legacy of serving its community, making it an ideal clinical training site. This collaboration will provide students with critical exposure to rural healthcare while fostering a deep commitment to patient-centered medicine.” 

IUP has been actively securing clinical training agreements with healthcare providers across the region to strengthen its proposed medical program. Previous agreements include partnerships with Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, Indiana Regional Medical Center, and several rural healthcare organizations. 

The need for increased access to trained physicians in Pennsylvania remains a key driving factor in IUP’s pursuit of an osteopathic medical college. According to the United Health Foundation, the ratio of patients to primary care physicians in Pennsylvania is 1,367 to 1, highlighting a growing demand for medical professionals, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Nationally, data indicates that graduates from osteopathic medical programs are more likely to enter primary care and practice in rural communities, making initiatives like IUP’s proposed college instrumental in addressing healthcare shortages. 

As IUP continues the accreditation process for its College of Osteopathic Medicine, partnerships like the one with Conemaugh Nason Medical Center will be integral to preparing future physicians and strengthening healthcare accessibility in the region.