The Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) awarded the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix a full reaccreditation for its medical school with the maximum available certification period, a signal of the incredible strength of the program.

The process for reaccreditation begins more than two years before the site visit; during this time, data from the internal processes of the medical education program is collected. The data covers the curriculum and other areas that contribute to the medical education program such as assessment, faculty appointments, facilities, student services and institutional policies, according to the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix.

The College of Medicine – Phoenix worked throughout the COVID-19 pandemic to meet the criteria required by the LCME, adjusting its strategy in the process due to restrictions set in motion by the pandemic. A committee composed of students and faculty helped gather the data and self-study prior to the LCME site visit. The self-study identifies strengths and challenges in the College. That committee was led boy Dr. Steven Lieberman, former senior associate dean for Academic Affairs at the college.

“The COVID-19 pandemic proved to be the largest challenge, as it occurred in the year that we collected the data and conducted surveys to submit with the self-study,” Dr. Lieberman said. “We had to make many adaptations that were different from our usual education program, and some of these were unpopular with students, whose voices are prominent in the accreditation process.”

The College of Medicine – Phoenix received its first accreditation in 2012, making it only the second medical school in Arizona — next to the College of Medicine – Tucson — and the first in Phoenix. This new accreditation would run through 2030.

“Congratulations to the College of Medicine – Phoenix and its entire team on this tremendous achievement,” said David Krietor, executive director of the PBC. “The college of medicine is vital to the success and energy of the PBC and this recognition by the LCME is tremendous evidence of that. We are proud to have a vibrant and well-respected medical college responsible for translational research and improving the lives of Arizonans here on the PBC.”

Meet the Dean of the College of Medicine – Phoenix, Dr. Guy Reed.

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“I am proud that we were awarded full reaccreditation for the longest period achievable,” said College of Medicine – Phoenix Dean Guy Reed. “This means that after rigorous examination, outside accreditors found that our college meets high standards for preparing students with the knowledge, skill and tools that they need to become physicians.”

The College of Medicine – Phoenix has continued to grow since its first class in 2012. This month, the college welcomed 120 new medical students in its annual white coat ceremony as part of the 16th class in its history.

“Class of 2026, this is a joyous occasion that will hold a special place in your memory for years to come,” Reed said. “Wearing this coat marks your commitment to serving communities and individuals with a combination of wisdom and genuine compassion.”