The University of South Dakota School of Medicine is moving to a new city. University leaders say it’s an opportunity to create more doctors and provide better health care in every corner of South Dakota.
The school of medicine at USD is moving to Sioux Falls as part of a consolidation effort to centralize medical students with many of the states field resources.
Shelia Gestring is the president of the university. She said students lose valuable time on the commute from Vermillion to Sioux Falls, where more resources are located.
“Our medical school and South Dakota’s health care systems impact every corner of the state, and much of that education and research that makes that possible starts in Sioux Falls," Gestring said. "As home to three of the state’s four major health care systems, as well as one of our medical school campuses, Sioux Falls is a hub for health care and health care education. The work happening here and the resources available in this city help our whole state become healthier and more resilient.”
This coincides with half a century of medical education at USD, which Gestring said has been instrumental in creating more doctors and specialists for the state.
Gov. Larry Rhoden was in attendance for the announcement Thursday and said South Dakota’s strength begins with a solid health care system, particularly in the most rural of areas.
“That’s why today’s announcement is so important – it will benefit all of South Dakota, not just Sioux Falls," Rhoden said. "The students standing here with us will have more opportunity for clinical experiences, and they’ll develop closer ties to South Dakota health systems. When they graduate, we should expect to see more of them stay right here in South Dakota. This means we’ll have a stronger talent pool available to fill open medical jobs in rural communities.”
Beginning in summer 2027, the first 18 months of USD med school will take place entirely in Sioux Falls.