The University of Georgia
Evaluating the Feasibility of an Independent Medical School
The Challenge
As one of the nation’s leading public research universities, the University of Georgia (UGA) sought to evaluate the potential for expanding its role in medical education by transitioning from the existing Augusta University (AU)/UGA Medical Partnership to an independently accredited medical school. The goal was to determine whether such a transition could strengthen Georgia’s physician workforce, enhance statewide access to healthcare, and expand UGA’s academic and research capabilities.
How We Helped
In Fall 2023, UGA engaged Tripp Umbach to conduct a comprehensive feasibility and economic impact study assessing the establishment of an independent medical school in Athens. The engagement included extensive stakeholder consultations with university leadership and hospital administrators, a detailed review of existing medical education infrastructure, and a rigorous analysis of accreditation readiness. Tripp Umbach evaluated budgetary structures, faculty composition, student enrollment, research programs, and clinical training networks to determine UGA’s capacity to meet Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) standards. The study also included multiple enrollment growth scenarios supported by financial modeling, projected operating and capital budgets, and statewide impact analysis.
The feasibility study concluded that establishing an independent medical school at UGA would deliver significant educational, economic, and societal benefits to Georgia. By aligning academic excellence with statewide healthcare needs, the proposed school could expand physician training capacity, enhance research opportunities, and support a more sustainable healthcare workforce. The report provides UGA and state leaders with a clear, data-driven roadmap for decision-making, future planning, and potential implementation of this transformative initiative.