Tarleton State’s proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine one step closer to becoming reality with passage of HB 125.

Photo/TSU Media Relations

TSU Media Relations

Special to Beneath the Surface News

House Bill 125, legislation supporting Tarleton State University’s proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine, passed the Texas House of Representatives last week with resounding approval.

Following the passage, the bill now advances to the Texas Senate for further consideration.

“The overwhelming support from the Texas House of Representatives has been incredible,” said Tarleton State President Dr. James Hurley. “Our medical school will ensure that more Texans have an opportunity to stay and serve our state.”

The proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine reflects Tarleton’s mission to address critical disparities in healthcare access and quality in rural and medically underserved communities.

Texas ranks 47th in the nation for patient-to-physician ratio, with just 13 physicians per 10,000 residents in rural areas.

One of Texas’ fastest-growing universities, Tarleton State has students from 228 of the state’s 254 counties, ranking third among Texas institutions for statewide representation.

Of the nearly 18,000 students at Tarleton, over 97% hail from the Lone Star State.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 20% of Texas residents will be 60 or older by 2030, and the number of residents aged 65 and older is projected to more than double to 8.3 million by 2050, further increasing healthcare demands.

On April 3, Dr. Elizabeth Palmarozzi, DO, FACOFP, was named Founding Dean of Tarleton’s proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine.

In her role, she will lead the accreditation process, oversee curriculum development, recruit faculty and staff, and work closely with healthcare partners to secure commitments for clinical placements and residencies.