The report also details the economic impact of each school, based on data from the 2023 fiscal year and using a model by IMPLAN, a company that provides economic impact data and analytical applications. It states that WVSOM’ s total impact for that year was $ 136 million, including direct, indirect, and induced impacts.
AACOM’ s report, which was conducted by EY Quantitative Economics and Statistics, states that nationwide, nearly 30 % of all medical students are enrolled in osteopathic medical programs. A total of 8,428 Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degrees were conferred in 2024 in the U. S.
Robert Cain, DO, AACOM president and CEO, said osteopathic medical schools play a key role in addressing the nation’ s primary care and rural health shortages.
“ Across America, communities are facing the harsh realities of the national physician shortage and an overstretched healthcare system,” he said.“ This report demonstrates osteopathic medical education’ s vital role in shaping a healthier future for all. Our schools are training physicians who serve where they’ re needed most and fueling local economies along the way.”
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West Virginia Medical Journal • June 2026 • 25