Addressing the Physician Shortage in Polk County

In response to a significant healthcare provider shortage in Polk County, Florida Polytechnic University and the Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine have introduced an innovative six-year accelerated medical degree program. This initiative aims to fast-track the education of future doctors, addressing the urgent need for more healthcare professionals in the region. Reports indicate that Polk County has only half the number of doctors, dentists, and pediatricians per 100,000 residents compared to the state average. This shortage is exacerbated by rapid population growth and has led to increased emergency room visits for non-emergent care and chronic disease management due to limited primary care access.

Innovative Educational Pathway

The new program allows students to earn both a Bachelor of Science and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree in just six years, compared to the traditional eight years. This accelerated curriculum is designed to make medical education more accessible and cost-effective while promoting STEM-medicine integration. The program is a result of a partnership between Dr. Kiran C. Patel, OCOM’s Founder, and Dr. Devin Stephenson, Florida Poly’s President, who signed an agreement in July to move forward with this endeavor.

Selective Admission Criteria

The program will admit only 20 high-achieving students annually, requiring a minimum SAT score of 1390, an ACT score of 31, and a GPA of 3.5. Notably, the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is not required for admission. This selective process aims to produce local physicians more quickly and affordably, aligning with Florida’s growing healthcare needs.

Strategic Vision for Health Education

Dr. Devin Stephenson emphasized that this program represents a transformative opportunity for aspiring physicians eager to serve their communities. By combining rigorous STEM education with an accelerated path to medical school, Florida Poly is reimagining health education and addressing the critical demand for more doctors across Florida and beyond. This initiative also aligns with Florida Poly’s 25|30 Strategic Plan to enhance partnerships and drive innovation.