Gila River Health Care has committed more than $25 million through 2034 to establish a University of Arizona medical school branch within the Gila River Indian Community’s tribally operated health system. The investment will support faculty, educational infrastructure, and full tuition scholarships for students.
Beginning in July 2027, the branch plans to admit ten students each year to a three-year primary care MD program. Students will spend their first 18 months in Phoenix, then move to Sacaton, thirty-two miles southeast of Phoenix, for 18 months of clinical education within Gila River Health Care.
This goes beyond hosting a short clinical rotation. Gila River is funding a medical school branch where students will complete half of their training while caring for patients in a Tribal health system.
The joint announcement is here.
Additional Resources
Matthew Tobey, MD, et al., Graduate Medical Education in Indian Country: Addressing Workforce Shortages and Improving Health Outcomes, National Academy of Medicine Perspectives (Aug. 11, 2025)
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