ALL CAMPUS
SUCCESS
NEW ERA
FOR FACULTY
PRACTICE
PLAN AND
PATIENT CARE
IN ATHENS
May 1, 2017, was a historic day in the evolution of our clinical practice plan in Athens: University
Medical Associates officially operated as part of OhioHealth. Through the new OhioHealth Physician
Group Heritage College, clinical faculty in Athens are now part of one of the most highly regarded
health care systems – and one of the most highly regarded employers – in the country.
Our faculty physician practices started out as “ambulatory clinics” in the basement of Grosvenor
Hall soon after the college was launched. In 1983, we opened the Ohio University Osteopathic
Medical Center in Parks Hall with funding from the Ohio legislature and the Appalachian Regional
Commission. Twenty years later, the medical center became an independent practice called
University Medical Associates. The OhioHealth Physician Group Heritage College represents a new
chapter in our enduring relationship with OhioHealth, of the faculty practice plan and patient care
in the Athens community, and of our joint medical education programs and research collaborations.
“It’s in the best interest of both our organizations and the community that we align strategically
to make this region a great place for doctors to work,” said Hugh Thornhill, president of the
OhioHealth Physician Group. “OhioHealth brings its expertise in clinical operations to the table, and
Heritage College provides high-quality opportunities for research and teaching.”
Melinda Ford, D.O.