In this four-year program, Rural Physician Leadership Program (RPLP) students complete their first two years of medical school in Lexington following the curriculum required for all UK College of Medicine students. In addition, RPLP students attend a weekly small group experience emphasizing rural and community medicine.
During their third and fourth years of medical school, RPLP students complete the majority of their clinical experiences at St. Claire Regional Medical Center and with other health care providers in Northeast Kentucky. Community Physicians holding academic appointments at the UK College of Medicine serve as their teachers, preceptors, and mentors. In addition, RPLP students have the opportunity to take course work at Morehead State University that focuses on health systems, business practices, and health policy. Upon completion of all components of the program, students graduate with the following:
MD degree from the UK College of Medicine, qualifying them for internship and residency in any area of medicine; and Certificate in Health Systems Leadership, upon completion of their course work at Morehead State University.