ACOM

The Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine (ACOM) will open in August for the first class of 150 medical students. ACOM is Alabama's first osteopathic medical school and the only one in the country to be affiliated with a not-for-profit regional medical center. ACOM, first announced in 2010, will help fill the state's shortage of an estimated 400 primary care physicians. The college is the academic arm of the Houston County Health Care Authority, the governing board for SAMC.

More than 2,200 students have submitted application to the college, with first consideration being given to in-state students who meet all eligibility standards. The college is also continuing to hire up to 60 faculty and staff. Construction on the three-story college located two miles east of SAMC, is ahead of schedule. A separate housing unit is also under contruction at the site.

ACOM is projected to have a statewide economic impact of $34.5 million upon its opening this fall, according to an independent study performed by a national consulting firm. The SAMC Foundation is serving as the fundraising arm for the college.

An open house for the college is planned for July 29.

Visit our website: www.acomedu.org