ISU study finds Health Sciences a significant economic contributor

A new study shows the ISU Division of Health Sciences is helping to spur the local and state economies more than most people realize.

The Economic Impact Study led by Assistant Dean of Health Sciences Linda Rankin was released this month and shows how the D.H.S. contributed over $200,000 back into Idaho’s economy. With more than 20 thousand unpaid service hours these students have worked, this brings the total economic impact up to $12.6 million.

The students at the College of Pharmacy especially have a knack for volunteering their services around the community. They make up more than 26 percent of the University’s student body. This year alone, the College of Pharmacy gave out more 1,250 flu shots for free.

University research officials say one crucial factor into why the money flows back into the economy is because students end up staying local after graduating. They are known to then donate money back to the University which is then used for research purposes.

“Over a five year period the degree programs that are within the Division have brought in over $36 million dollars in research money,” College of Pharmacy Dean Dr. Paul Cady explained. Most of that (money) is spent locally, so these funds and these programs really do bring a lot.”

The study also shows that nearly half of every pharmacist practicing in the state graduated from ISU.

The Division says they expect to see the school continuing to bring in more funds and contribute more money back into the community within these next few years.