UTICA — A new initiative aimed at strengthening physician retention in the Mohawk Valley region will use $50,000 in funding from the Oneida County Local Development Corporation (OCLDC). The funding, which OCLDC approved, will support the Mohawk Valley Health System’s (MVHS) Resident-to-Attending Bridge program, a workforce-development effort designed to help final-year medical residents transition into […]
UTICA — A new initiative aimed at strengthening physician retention in the Mohawk Valley region will use $50,000 in funding from the Oneida County Local Development Corporation (OCLDC).
The funding, which OCLDC approved, will support the Mohawk Valley Health System’s (MVHS) Resident-to-Attending Bridge program, a workforce-development effort designed to help final-year medical residents transition into long-term attending roles within the community, MVHS said.
The program includes structured mentorship, faculty development, board-preparation stipends, and relocation assistance for graduates who commit to staying in the region.
“This investment is a powerful endorsement of our shared commitment to building a sustainable healthcare workforce,” Darlene Stromstad, president and CEO of MVHS, said in the announcement. “We are deeply grateful to OCLDC for recognizing the importance of physician retention as a cornerstone of regional economic vitality.”
The initiative aligns with OCLDC’s mission to support workforce sectors “critical to Oneida County’s long-term stability and quality of life.” Health care remains one of the most important sectors in the region, and retaining trained physicians is key to ensuring continued access to high-quality care, MVHS contends.
The health system welcomed 35 new resident physicians this summer across seven residency programs, including family medicine, general surgery, psychiatry and pharmacy. Of the 10 family-medicine graduates, six have committed to staying in the Mohawk Valley, with roles ranging from hospitalists to faculty members.
“This program is not just about retaining talent — it’s about investing in the future of our community,” Shawna Papale, executive director of OCLDC and Mohawk Valley EDGE, said. “We’re proud to partner with MVHS on this initiative and look forward to seeing its impact on both healthcare and economic development in our region.”
The $50,000 contribution from OCLDC builds on recent philanthropic momentum at MVHS, including a $100,000 gift from a former physician and a $50,000 grant from a corporate fund to enhance simulation training, the health system noted.
