Following a two-year self-study and an intensive four-day site visit in February, the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) has awarded the University of Florida College of Medicine continued accreditation for a full eight-year term, Michael L. Good, M.D., dean of the College of Medicine, announced Monday, June 29.

The LCME is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as the authority for the accreditation of medical education programs in the United States and Canada leading to the M.D. degree. Following the LCME’s last visit to the College of Medicine in 2007, the LCME praised the college’s outstanding faculty, staff and education but also acknowledged its outdated facilities and resources. The current LCME report commends the college’s:

• Welcoming and inclusive admissions process, which includes patient interviews of potential students. The report shows that the college’s patient-centeredness positively influences students’ selection of the UF College of Medicine – and this supports how patients are at the heart of UF Health’s efforts.
• Student counseling and development services that are highly responsive to student needs.
• Faculty affairs and development resources and programs in support of faculty and administrators.

Their in-depth assessment noted a few findings for continuing work, which build on existing efforts, and include:

• Achieving greater diversity among students, faculty, staff and the academic community by attracting and retaining individuals from demographically varied backgrounds.
• Monitoring medical curriculum outcomes to ensure curriculum objectives are achieved.
• Ensuring clinical observation of students and timeliness of clinical grade reporting.

The LCME examiners complimented the exceptional skill of the college’s faculty and staff and the college’s high standards for programs and services. They were also pleased to see the new George T. Harrell, M.D., Medical Education Building nearing completion.

“Now, with additional insights and direction, we continue the great work of the UF College of Medicine: helping patients heal, educating physicians whose technical skills are matched by hospitable and caring service, and advancing knowledge and scientific discovery,” Good said. “I am proud of how we have moved forward during the past eight years and met the challenges offered to us in our last assessment.”