First new Chicago medical school in 100 years tackles doctor shortage

ILLINOIS, UNITED STATES — Chicago is set to welcome its new medical school in nearly 100 years, as the Illinois College of Osteopathic Medicine prepares to open its doors in fall 2026. 

With a mission to address the nation’s physician shortage and integrate mental health into medical training, the school hopes to redefine modern healthcare education.

Innovative curriculum blends mental and physical health

Michele Nealon, president of the Chicago School, pointed out that the school aims to equip its students with the skills to look after their patients’ physical and psychological well-being.

“We strive to be a leader in redefining what it means to train a physician in the 21st century, blending osteopathic principles with a mental and behavioral health foundation,” Nealon told Chicago Sun Times.

Since burnout affecting doctors is at a peak, the school is trying to support students with coping strategies and address the problems of seeking help.

Preventive care and holistic concerns are the main concerns of osteopathic medicine, which currently includes 25% of medical students. According to Dr. John Lucas, the Founding Dean and Chief Academic Officer of Illinois College of Osteopathic Medicine at The Chicago School, 12.2% of osteopathic students do not represent the diversity our society needs.

With 57% of osteopathic graduates entering general practice, the school’s model could help fill critical gaps in primary care, especially in underserved communities.

Economic impact and debates surrounding expansion

The new medical school, housed in a renovated 247,000-square-foot West Loop facility, represents a $48 million investment with an estimated $1 billion economic impact over a decade. Slated to open in spring, it will initially enroll 85 students, scaling up to 170 graduates each year. 

This expansion comes as the American Osteopathic Association reports nearly 200,000 active practitioners yet warns more schools are needed to combat the national physician shortage.

However, The Chicago School has faced scrutiny over accreditation issues in the past. In 2012, 40 students sued its Los Angeles psychology program, alleging misleading accreditation claims. 

The school maintains it has since improved, citing its recent pre-accreditation status from the Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation.

While its psychology program has a 66% licensure exam pass rate, the new medical school will need to demonstrate academic rigor to gain full trust.