Economic growth projected from improvements at OSU Center for Health Sciences

Friday, October 28, 2005

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 Friday 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 "U.S. News & World Report" — challenging alumni, students and faculty to be in the top five for rural health and top 10 for family medicine by 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,” Fernandes said. “Keeping the rural physician pipeline open in Oklahoma is imperative for a healthy future.”

Fernandes said OSU-CHS 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 Oklahoma.