ASU Hires Firm To Study Expansion Into Osteopathy

Arkansas State University hired consulting firm Tripp Umbach to conduct a feasibility study on the viability of an osteopathic medical school.

ASU has been looking to establish a Doctor of Osteopathy Medicine (D.O.) school that would help the Delta fulfill the need for more primary care physicians in underserved areas. D.O.s can perform some of the services a primary care physician, which rural areas of Arkansas and the nation are lacking.

“Arkansas State has a history of looking at societal needs and addressing them through our academic programs,” said Dr. Tim Hudson, chancellor of Arkansas State University.

“Our goal is to advance osteopathic medicine and serve our state,” Hudson said. “We know that D.O. schools can have a major impact. They elevate primary health care across a region, produce tremendous economic impact on communities and raise the prestige level of associated universities.”

Last week, the Delta Regional Authority (DRA) became a supporter in Arkansas State’s process by providing a $25,000 investment to help cover the costs of the Tripp Umbach study.

Hudson said he expects to make a recommendation on next steps in the process, based on feedback from the formal study, to the ASU Board of Trustees before the end of the year.