Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine

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Burrell College

Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine (BCOM) is a private, for-profit medical school for osteopathic medicine located in Las Cruces, New Mexico, United States. Established with the aim of addressing the shortage of physicians in the Southwestern United States and Northern Mexico, BCOM is dedicated to improving healthcare through innovative education, research, and community service. The college emphasizes a holistic approach to medicine, focusing on the body's ability to heal itself, and prepares students for careers as osteopathic physicians with a strong foundation in primary care and community health.

History

BCOM was founded in response to the critical need for healthcare providers in the region. The college opened its doors to the first class of students in the fall of 2016, making it one of the newer institutions dedicated to osteopathic medical education. The establishment of BCOM was a collaborative effort involving local and state governments, healthcare organizations, and private investors, reflecting a community-wide commitment to improving access to quality healthcare.

Academic Programs

BCOM offers a four-year Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) program, which is designed to integrate basic and clinical sciences to prepare students for the complexities of modern medicine. The curriculum emphasizes a patient-centered approach and includes extensive clinical training from the first year of study. Students at BCOM benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and technologies, including simulation labs and virtual reality tools, to enhance their learning experience.

Pre-Clinical Education

The first two years of the DO program focus on pre-clinical education, covering fundamental medical sciences, osteopathic principles and practices, and early clinical experiences. Courses are designed to foster a deep understanding of the human body, disease processes, and the osteopathic approach to patient care.

Clinical Rotations

In the third and fourth years, students participate in clinical rotations across a variety of specialties, including internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, psychiatry, and family medicine. These rotations take place in hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities throughout the region, providing students with hands-on experience in patient care under the supervision of experienced physicians.

Admissions

Admission to BCOM is competitive, with applicants evaluated on a holistic basis that includes academic achievement, MCAT scores, healthcare experience, community service, and personal qualities that align with the mission and values of the college. BCOM seeks to enroll a diverse student body committed to serving the healthcare needs of communities, particularly those in underserved areas.

Facilities

BCOM's campus features modern facilities designed to support a comprehensive medical education. These include lecture halls, laboratories, a medical library, and simulation centers equipped with the latest in medical education technology. The campus also provides spaces for student collaboration and wellness, reflecting the college's commitment to the holistic development of its students.

Community Engagement

A cornerstone of BCOM's mission is its commitment to community service and engagement. The college fosters partnerships with local healthcare providers, non-profit organizations, and community groups to offer health screenings, educational programs, and other services. These initiatives not only benefit the community but also provide students with valuable opportunities to apply their skills and knowledge in real-world settings.

Accreditation

BCOM is accredited by the Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA), the accrediting agency for colleges of osteopathic medicine in the United States. This accreditation ensures that BCOM meets or exceeds standards for educational quality and prepares graduates for licensure and successful careers in medicine.