Partnership Expands Training Opportunities for Future Physicians in Southeast Ohio
OhioHealth is proud to partner with Ohio University’s Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine to address the growing need for healthcare professionals in Southeast Ohio.
This collaboration, which also includes Physicians Group of Southeastern Ohio (PGSEO) and Muskingum Valley Health Centers (MVHC), will provide medical students with hands-on training opportunities while building connections with the local community.
The partnership, launched in July, is based in the Zanesville and Cambridge areas, where third and fourth-year medical students from the Heritage College will gain valuable clinical experience. By living and working in the region, these students will not only contribute to local healthcare but also be encouraged to consider long-term careers in rural and underserved areas.
“By exposing future physicians to the region, we hope some students will stay after graduation and make these communities their home,” Bill Burke, DO, dean of the Heritage College, Dublin, told OHIO Today. “This would increase the number of primary care physicians and help close gaps in care that many communities face.”
OhioHealth Southeastern Medical Center plays a key role in the initiative, offering students access to real-world clinical training and mentorship.
“This collaboration represents a shared commitment to improving access to quality healthcare in our region,” Sandra Schubert, MD, associate vice president of clinical affairs at Southeastern Medical Center told OHIO Today. “By investing in medical education and community engagement, we’re building a healthier future for residents of Southeast Ohio.”
The partnership also benefits from the involvement of PGSEO and MVHC, who bring their expertise in community-based care. These organizations provide additional training opportunities and help students understand the unique challenges and rewards of practicing in underserved areas.
This collaboration is part of the Heritage College’s Clinical Education Network, which connects students with high-quality clinical learning opportunities across Ohio.
