Rfp - University Of Rhode Island Medical School Feasibility Study

Background
The University of Rhode Island (URI) is seeking proposals from qualified firms to conduct a feasibility study for establishing a URI college of medicine. This initiative aligns with URI's mission as the state's flagship research institution, emphasizing high-quality education, community engagement, and addressing significant challenges in healthcare.

The feasibility study is part of a broader strategic vision to enhance student achievement and meet the growing healthcare needs in Rhode Island, particularly in primary care. It will be submitted to a legislative commission tasked with evaluating the state's healthcare workforce and medical education landscape.

Work Details
The feasibility study will include:
1. Evaluation of costs, opportunities, and benefits of establishing a public URI college of medicine featuring a graduate MD program.
2. Assessment of current access to primary medical care in Rhode Island and the gap between educational opportunities and service levels.
3. Market analysis on financial viability, including local, regional, and national competition.
4. Community and economic impact analysis of establishing a public medical school in Rhode Island.
5. Development of programmatic models for traditional four-year MD programs and a seven-year accelerated MD program that combines undergraduate and graduate education.
6. Financial models considering tuition revenue, state support, private sector contributions, and startup costs including facilities, staffing, operational costs, and space needs assessment.
7. Evaluation of URI's readiness for a college of medicine regarding cultural readiness, financial capabilities, existing facilities, regulatory landscape, residency requirements, and statewide economic impact.

Period of Performance
The initial contract period will begin approximately January 1, 2024, lasting for five months with potential renewal for an additional three months based on vendor performance.

Place of Performance
The feasibility study will primarily take place at URI’s Kingston Campus with potential outreach in Providence or other locations within Rhode Island.