On September 16, Touro College of Dental Medicine, based in New York, inaugurated its new facility in southeast Albuquerque with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. This development marks the opening of New Mexico's first dental college, addressing a significant gap in the state's healthcare system. Currently, New Mexico has one of the lowest patient-to-dentist ratios in the country, with only 48 dentists per 1,000 people compared to the national average of 60.
Joseph Parkinson, executive assistant dean at Touro College of Dental Medicine's New Mexico campus and a practicing dentist, said: "Today’s ribbon cutting is more than opening a building. It’s about opening the door for opportunities for education, patient care and community service."
The newly established 70,000-square-foot facility is located off Gibson Boulevard near San Pedro Drive and includes over 100 dental stations. These stations provide services ranging from general dentistry to oral surgery and orthodontics. The college also offers pediatric tooth care under one roof.
Students at Touro University will undergo two years of clinical training and patient treatment at this Albuquerque location. The inaugural class consists of 100 students who have already begun their studies this year, with another cohort set to start next year.
Touro College is investing approximately $40 million into this initiative in New Mexico. This investment is expected to boost educational and economic development within Albuquerque and its surroundings by creating high-paying jobs and enhancing local healthcare services.
The Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce has extended its congratulations to Touro College of Dental Medicine as it launches this important educational and healthcare project.
Information from this article can be found here.
