Leaders and students from the Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine spent the day at the Idaho State Capitol for the annual “ICOM Day at the Capitol,” an opportunity to share the mission, impact, and needs of the state’s future physicians directly with lawmakers.
ICOM President, Dr. Tracy Farnsworth, and Dean, Dr. Kevin Wilson, along with members of the student body and leadership from the Student Osteopathic Medical Association (SOMA), met with legislators to discuss key issues shaping the physician workforce pipeline. Conversations centered on strengthening both undergraduate medical education and graduate medical education in Idaho—critical components in expanding access to healthcare across the region.
A highlight of the day included a visit with Idaho Governor Brad Little in the Ceremonial Office, where students had the chance to share their experiences, career goals, and passion for serving Idaho communities. The group also met with House Speaker Mike Moyle on the House floor for a discussion about the state’s growing medical needs and the role osteopathic physicians play in meeting them.
The visit continued in the Senate Gallery, where students observed legislative proceedings and gained a deeper understanding of how policy decisions are made at the state level.
“ICOM Day at the Capitol” offered students an invaluable civics-in-action experience—strengthening their understanding of advocacy while elevating the vital conversations needed to support Idaho’s future healthcare workforce.
