Belmont University has broken a 50-year dry spell by opening the Thomas F. Frist Junior College of Medicine in Nashville, Tennessee. With the nation facing a critical shortage of doctors, the college’s launch comes at a crucial time.
Dr. Anderson Spickard expressed his honor in being entrusted with the responsibility of shaping this medical school.
As the Dean of Belmont University’s inaugural medical school, Dr. Spickard holds a prestigious position. However, he faces the daunting task of navigating the current state of medicine, which is riddled with challenges. In fact, the National Center for Health Workforce Analysis reported that over 50% of primary care physicians have experienced burnout in the wake of the pandemic.
Dr. Spickard emphasized the importance of keeping one’s ‘Why’ intact and shared that we all know someone who has lost it. He stated that their aim is to ensure that their students are not only well-prepared but also fully engaged and passionate about what they are doing.
According to government data, the increasing rate of burnout among doctors is leading to a concerning shortage. By 2036, there is projected to be a shortage of 68,020 primary care physicians in the United States, with rural areas bearing the brunt of the impact. Despite these challenges, Belmont views this situation as an opportunity.
“Our belief is that our students have the power to revolutionize the field of medicine by providing holistic, comprehensive care. We do not simply view the healthcare system as a means to endure, but rather as an opportunity to scrutinize and enhance. We encourage our students to become agents of hope, driving positive change within the industry.”
The medical school is designed to accommodate 50 students in its inaugural year, with the ability to expand to 100 in the future. It boasts spacious lecture halls as well as smaller, more intimate community learning studios that encourage collaboration among students. However, according to Spickard, the school’s approach extends beyond its physical walls. The students will also be engaged in service learning projects that will connect them with the local residents of Nashville.
