Becker's Healthcare January 9, 2026
Numerous challenges face medical schools and universities in 2026 as new restrictions limit student loans for incoming students and the physician shortage deepens.
Four physicians joined Becker’s to discuss the biggest challenges facing medical academia in the year ahead.
Editor’s note: Responses have been lightly edited for clarity and length:
Question: What do you see as the biggest obstacle facing medical schools/universities in 2026?
Kenneth Elconcin, MD. Orthopedic Surgeon (Los Angeles): I believe the biggest obstacle is the cost. Tuition is $60,000 to $80,000 plus living expenses, books, equipment, etc. Medical education is just too expensive. An individual graduating now frequently has a debt of around $250,000, and that does not include the cost incurred during a residency.
Jennifer...
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