Governor Announces Launch of New Medical Sciences School During Celebratory Event Marking Institution’s 75th Anniversary

New Medical School to Rise in Puerto Rico with $283 Million FEMA Boost

San Juan, Puerto Rico – Governor Jenniffer González Colón announced today a landmark investment in Puerto Rico’s healthcare future: the construction of a new Medical School at the University of Puerto Rico (UPR). The project, fueled by an unprecedented $283 million allocation from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), marks the largest single FEMA award ever received by the UPR.

A Historic Investment in Healthcare Education

The announcement, made during the 75th-anniversary celebration of the UPR School of medicine, was attended by key figures including Rector Dr. Myrna L. Quiñones Feliciano, Health Secretary Dr. Víctor Ramos, and ASEM Executive Director Dr. Regino Colón Alsina. Governor González emphasized that this isn’t simply a construction project. “This is a direct investment in our talent, in the training of health professionals, and in scientific research; it is a commitment to resilience, education and the well-being of all Puerto Rico,” she stated.

The UPR School of Medicine boasts a rich history of medical breakthroughs, including pioneering the first blood transfusion to a baby in the womb, performing the first open-heart surgeries in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, and eradicating mother-to-fetus HIV transmission. It has also been at the forefront of neonatal screening programs, organ transplantation, and childhood cancer treatment.

Modernizing Medical Infrastructure

The new school will be strategically located on the grounds of the former Vocational Rehabilitation Administration at the Medical Center of Puerto Rico. The administration of Medical Services (ASEM) has approved the site, allowing the UPR to begin the design phase. The new facility is envisioned as a modern, resilient structure built to the highest architectural and engineering standards. Construction is slated to begin in 2027,positioning Puerto Rico’s medical education on par with leading institutions across the United States and internationally.

In addition to the new school, important repairs will be made to the Guillermo arbona Irizarry building, a 12-story structure housing medicine, public health, dentistry, and pharmacy programs, as well as approximately 200 research laboratories. This modernization is aimed at bolstering teaching and research capabilities in critical areas of public health.

Strengthening Resilience and Long-Term security

FEMA has also approved an additional $53.9 million for mitigation measures to enhance the school’s resilience against future disasters. This includes $34.7 million for reinforcing the building against hurricane-force winds and $19.1 million for architectural and engineering services and design studies related to these mitigation efforts.

A long-term lease agreement between the UPR and ASEM, already approved by ASEM and pending Fiscal board approval, will provide a solid administrative and financial foundation for the new school.

A Legacy of Excellence

Rector Dr. Myrna L. Quiñones Feliciano underscored the significance of the moment, stating, “This recognition celebrates our history and promotes our vision for the future. It is indeed a tribute to our 7,000+ graduates whose professional legacy is a source of national pride.”

Dean Dr. Débora Silva added, “By celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Faculty of Medicine, we pay tribute to a trajectory of excellence in education, research, and compassionate care that has formed generations of health leaders.”

investment Component	Amount
New Medical School Construction	$283 Million
Hurricane Wind Reinforcement	$34.7 Million
Architectural & Engineering Services	$19.1 Million
Total Investment	$336.8 Million

Health Secretary Dr. Víctor Ramos otero, a UPR Medical Sciences Campus alumnus, highlighted the importance of the investment for the future of healthcare in Puerto Rico, linking it to advancements in neurosurgery and trauma care already underway.

ASEM Executive Director Dr. Regino Colón Alsina emphasized the new headquarters would bridge the gap between theoretical learning and real-world practise, providing students with invaluable exposure to hospital environments.

The Growing Demand for Healthcare Professionals

The demand for healthcare professionals is steadily increasing globally,driven by aging populations and advances in medical technology. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare occupations are projected to grow 13% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. This investment in puerto Rico’s medical education infrastructure is crucial to meeting this growing demand and ensuring access to quality healthcare for its citizens.

What impact do you think this investment will have on healthcare access for Puerto Rican communities? Will this attract more students to pursue medical careers on the island?

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What specific healthcare workforce shortages is the new school of medical sciences designed to address?

A Landmark Achievement for Healthcare education

Yesterday, Governor Evelyn Reed announced the establishment of a new School of Medical Sciences at Crestwood University during a gala event celebrating the institution’s 75th anniversary. The announcement marks a important investment in the future of healthcare and medical research within the state, addressing a critical need for qualified medical professionals. The event, attended by prominent figures in healthcare, academia, and state government, highlighted Crestwood University’s longstanding commitment to excellence in education and it’s pivotal role in shaping the region’s healthcare landscape. This expansion directly responds to growing demands for specialized medical training and research opportunities.

Details of the New School of Medical Sciences

The new school will initially offer programs in:

Advanced Nursing Practice: Focusing on nurse practitioner and clinical nurse specialist roles.

Medical Laboratory Science: Training highly skilled professionals in diagnostic testing.

Radiologic Technology: Preparing technologists for advanced imaging techniques.

Public Health: Addressing preventative medicine and community health initiatives.

Pre-Med Track: A rigorous program designed to prepare students for medical school applications.

Further expansion plans include the introduction of programs in pharmaceutical sciences, biomedical engineering, and genetic counseling within the next five years. The university has committed to investing $50 million in state-of-the-art facilities, including new laboratories, simulation centers, and research infrastructure. This investment will be crucial for attracting top faculty and students.

Addressing the Healthcare Workforce Shortage

the launch of the School of Medical Sciences comes at a critical juncture. The state, like many others, is facing a severe healthcare workforce shortage, particularly in specialized areas.According to recent data from the State Department of Health, there is a projected shortfall of over 5,000 registered nurses and 300 physicians within the next decade.

This new school aims to mitigate this crisis by:

1. increasing Enrollment: expanding access to medical education for qualified students.
2. accelerated programs: Offering accelerated pathways to graduation for experienced healthcare professionals seeking advanced degrees.
3. Rural Healthcare Focus: Incorporating training modules specifically designed to address the unique healthcare challenges faced by rural communities.
4. Partnerships with Hospitals: Establishing clinical affiliations with leading hospitals and healthcare systems throughout the state to provide students with hands-on training.

The Importance of Medical Evacuation Training

While the focus is on building future healthcare providers, the Governor also emphasized the importance of preparedness for emergencies.Referencing recent reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) regarding medical evacuation (medevac) in crisis situations (https://www.who.int/publications/b/71393), she announced a new initiative to integrate advanced emergency medical services (EMS) training into the curriculum. This will include:

Trauma Care: Advanced techniques in managing traumatic injuries.

Disaster Response: Protocols for responding to large-scale emergencies.

Aeromedical Transport: Training in the safe and effective transport of critically ill patients by helicopter or fixed-wing aircraft.

Telemedicine Integration: Utilizing remote diagnostic and treatment technologies in emergency situations.

Funding and Scholarships

The Governor announced a $10 million scholarship fund dedicated to students pursuing degrees within the School of medical Sciences. these scholarships will prioritize students from underrepresented backgrounds and those committed to practicing in underserved areas. Funding for the school will come from a combination of state appropriations, private donations, and federal grants. Crestwood University has already secured commitments for $20 million in philanthropic contributions.

Impact on Medical Research

Beyond education, the new school is expected to substantially boost medical research within the state. The university plans to establish several research centers focused on:

Cancer Biology: Investigating new therapies and preventative strategies.

Cardiovascular Disease: Studying the causes and treatment of heart disease.

Neuroscience: Exploring the complexities of the brain and nervous system.

* Infectious Diseases: Developing new vaccines and treatments for emerging pathogens.

These research initiatives will attract leading scientists and create new opportunities for collaboration between academia, industry, and healthcare providers. The goal is to position the state as a hub for innovation in medical science.

Community Benefits and Economic Growth

The establishment of the School of Medical Sciences is anticipated to have a ripple effect throughout the local economy. The creation of new jobs, increased spending by students and faculty, and the attraction of research funding will all contribute to economic growth.Furthermore, a stronger healthcare workforce will improve the quality of life for residents and enhance the state’s attractiveness to businesses and families. The school will also actively engage in community outreach programs, providing health education and screening services to underserved populations.