Management Principles to Drive the Creation of a 21st Century Medical School

Abstract

Introduction There are currently no data, blueprints, best practices, or financial models available to guide the creation of a new medical school. Yet, the United States is experiencing unprecedented growth of new allopathic medical schools. Findings This article brings logic to the process. It converts the complexity of what is often regarded as an administrative exercise into the first published framework of management principles. Those principles were then translated into a process map and a financial optimization model. All three elements can be successfully implemented for establishing an accredited, value-driven medical education program that minimizes time from inception to implementation, and ensures sustainability over time. Outcomes This case report provides a blueprint for planning and implementation of a new medical school. Outcomes include both process and optimization models, as well as valuable insights that have utility when considering a new medical school to mitigate the projected nationwide shortage of physicians.