Midwestern University Names New Medical School Dean in Arizona

July 10, 2026

Earlier this week, Midwestern University named Heather Ferrill, DO, as the new dean of its Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Ferrill assumed her duties on July 6, 2026.


The physician, educator, and leader comes to Midwestern from Rocky Vista University, where she served as the vice president of faculty affairs and the dean of its osteopathic medical school. She has also served as a professor of osteopathic medicine, principles, and practice since 2017.


Y. Gloria Yueh, PdD, provost of Midwestern University, celebrated Dr. Ferrill's appointment: "Dr. Ferrill brings exceptional experience in academic leadership and clinical practice. Her collaborative leadership style, strategic vision, commitment to innovation, and unwavering dedication to student success make her uniquely qualified to lead AZCOM into its next chapter of excellence and growth."


Dr. Ferrill is board-certified in neuromusculoskeletal medicine and family practice. She graduated from Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed a residency at Mercy General Health Partners, where she served as chief resident and intern. Dr. Ferrill has since earned a master's degree in medical education and leadership, which informed her philosophy on innovative teaching paradigms and student-centered learning. 


The Arizona Medical Association warmly congratulates Dr. Ferrill on her appointment. As the largest physician-led organization in the state, ArMA is honored to work alongside those leading the future of medical education, including Midwestern University. We look forward to our continued partnership under Dr. Ferrill's leadership. 


Dr. Ferrill succeeds Lori Kemper, DO, who retired as AZCOM's dean after 19 years of exceptional service and leadership. We commend Dr. Kemper on her many years of service to Arizona's medical community. Her influence on medical education will continue to shape healthcare in Arizona for many years to come. We congratulate her on her well-deserved retirement!

Abrazo Arizona Heart Hospital Launches Largest Expansion in Its History

By Admin User • August 7, 2026
Abrazo Arizona Heart Hospital Launches Largest Expansion in Its History Investment Expands Inpatient and Procedural Capacity to Meet Rising Demand for Cardiovascular Care The Abrazo Arizona Heart Hospital in Phoenix announced last week that it is undertaking the largest expansion in its history. The new construction will add inpatient and procedural capacity to serve more Arizonans in need of heart and vascular care. Meeting Arizona's Growing Demand for Heart Care Abrazo explained that the expansion is necessary to support Arizona's continued population growth, which is driving increased demand for cardiovascular services. The added capacity will allow the hospital to not only treat more patients requiring cardiac, vascular, and critical care, but also continue its participation in clinical research and innovation.  Part of a Multi-Year Investment Strategy In its press release, Abrazo describes the expansion as the latest phase of ongoing, multi-year investments intended to advance care and meet the evolving healthcare needs of communities across the state. The hospital did not report an anticipated completion date for the project. Source: Abrazo Health

Arizona Erases $1 Billion in Medical Debt for Nearly 671,000 Residents

By Admin User • August 7, 2026
Hobbs Highlights Milestone in Ongoing Partnership With Undue Medical Debt Gov. Katie Hobbs announced this week that more than $1 billion in medical debt has been erased for nearly 671,000 Arizonans, marking a significant milestone in the state's ongoing partnership with the nonprofit Undue Medical Debt. How the Program Works The initiative, first launched in 2024, purchases qualifying medical debt from hospitals and collection agencies for a fraction of its value before eliminating the debt entirely for eligible patients. Who Qualifies According to the governor's office, recipients do not need to apply for the program. It is available to Arizona residents who: Receive low- and moderate-income Have medical debt that represents a substantial share of their annual income A Flashpoint in the 2026 Election Season Healthcare affordability has been at the forefront of Arizona's political conversation as the 2026 election season intensifies. Supporters argue that relieving burdensome medical debt can improve: Families' financial stability Creditworthiness Willingness to seek needed healthcare Critics of similar programs have generally questioned whether debt forgiveness addresses the underlying drivers of rising healthcare costs or simply treats the financial consequences after care has been delivered. As debates continue over healthcare affordability and access, Arizona's medical debt relief initiative is expected to remain a prominent example in broader discussions about how states can help patients facing significant medical expenses.