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Economic growth projected from improvements at Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences

Friday, October 28, 2005

STILLWATER – A climb in national rankings combined with an aggressive marketing campaign, clinic expansion and hospital stability equals an economic boom for Oklahoma, according to Dr. John Fernandes, president and dean of the OSU Center for Health Sciences in Tulsa. Fernandes outlined a five-year campus growth plan today for the OSU A&M Board of Regents.

Fernandes highlighted key factors for economic success including building on the medical school’s 2,000 plus physician graduates with an assertive recruitment and retention campaign. Fulfilling the needs of the millennial generation was noted essential by creating an optimal learning environment where technology and faculty are readily accessible.

Fernandes also emphasized consistent “best of” rankings from US News & World Report – challenging alumni, students and faculty to be in the top five for rural health and top ten for family medicine by the year 2010.

Stabilization of Tulsa Regional Medical Center was touted a top priority. A state legislative commission is currently looking at recommendations for a long-term purchase/lease agreement for the hospital where the majority of OSU doctors train.

“Studies show that a physician generates $1 million annually in his or her community,” said Fernandes. “Keeping the rural physician pipeline open in Oklahoma is imperative for a healthy future.”

Fernandes said the Center for Health Sciences currently operates four clinics in Tulsa treating more than 100,000 patients, mainly the sick and poor. That number is expected to reach 175,000 lives treated within the next five years.

Tobacco tax receipts along with expanding practice plan revenue will produce new growth for the campus which currently generates $123 million annually for Tulsa’s economy. OSU medical resident training programs bring an additional $28 million per year to our state.

 

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