Here is a bit of info. We already have 2 optometry schools in Texas - UHCO and UIW. But supposedly we are needing more ODs for Texas. Yet the most recent data has 20-25% of UHCO students are OUT of State and 50% of UIW are OUT of State. Why? Can't find enough qualified Texas students? If so, a new school will change that??? The claim when UIW was founded was to provide ODs to the under served areas of Texas.
I particularly like that the TOA doesn't even have the press release (dated May 9) on its website. Any wonder why I am no longer a member
More info: UIW listed projected cost for the first year of optometry school to be about 75k not including healthcare insurance (tuition, books supplies,living expenses ect). No wonder a new grad wants(needs) so much straight out of school ------- 300k in debt!!!!!!!! Luckily the Vision Plans have increased reimbursement
I truly feel sorry for the new grads and current students. That is a deep hole to dig out of. Scholarships from the Military, Indian Health ect seems to be the only way to afford the profession unless your family is footing the bill