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Recently Sen. John Martin, D-Eagle Lake, proposed to the legislature a study looking into the possibility of a medical school at the University of Maine. Martin would like state funds to update a study done on the subject during the 1970s.
Currently the state of Maine does not have a medical school and those students looking to pursue interests in medicine must go out of state. The idea of offering, or even looking into offering, the opportunity for students to be educated in-state is a great step towards promoting education in a rural area.
Additionally, Jim Hanar of the Maine Hospital Association, said recent studies have shown that most doctors end up practicing in the same area they’ve received their education. Having more Mainers stay in Maine is simply good for the state and the state’s economy.
Further, both President Hoff and a spokesperson for Eastern Maine Medical Center have lauded the idea publicly. Any program which has the potential to positively effect the educational community, health care community and the business community is a step in the right direction and should be pursued with vigor.
Creating a medical school at the university would also benefit the bevy of area nursing programs at Bangor colleges as well as our own. It could serve as a vital link in uniting the colleges and creating a good working environment.
Building a strong medical program in Maine is an idea long overdue and one which deserves the full attention of the state, legislature and the governor.
