Posted 1/31/01 U of M medical school must be adequately financed As the discussion flurries around surpluses, tax reductions, rebates, there is also a number of pressing needs that faces the current Legislature. Education is receiving good attention at all levels, and one that needs special attention is that of the medical school at the University of Minnesota As part of the University request, there is a need for $16 million to balance the budget for the biennium for clinical services. There was a time when patient services provided income to the medical school but now it is costing more to provide them than the income generated and the shortfall is $8 million a year. It is just essential that the shortfall be covered by appropriation. Not only do the patients need the clinical services, but also the teaching function depends upon strong medical and clinical opportunities. A majority of the doctors practicing in Minnesota receive their education at the University and it takes a lot these days to properly train a doctor with so much new technology, medications, and surgical procedures to know about. There is keen competition for faculty and the medical school seeks $10.4 million for the biennium to strengthen the faculty. The University has slipped behind its strong position of 10 years ago in the medical world. It should not be allowed to fall any further as top professional help strengthens the medical school in turning out doctors and every person in the state has a stake in good medical care from well-trained physicians. A third item is $1.1 million to supplement the budget to expand training of medical technologists who are the support personnel for doctors. Finally, an important function of the medical school is in the field of research, and hereto, there is a need for reimbursement and supplementation to keep pace with medical technology developments. The Legislature provides only nine percent of the cost of operating the school. The balance is made up of clinical income, tuition, research grants, and contributions from foundations and individuals. It is important that the relatively small amounts being sought be supplied. The fact is that the people of our state have a great bargain in the University of Minnesota. Every dollar invested in it generates many more dollars in income. This is through research grants and jobs generated as well as maintaining the high level of medical service for which our state is distinguished. The need is now for individuals to write of their own experience to their legislators urging that the needs of medical appropriation at the University of Minnesota be adequately financed. The entire University budget request deserves favorable consideration. Elmer L. Andersen Publisher Emeritus ©Post Review