The AAMC submitted a May 20 public comment letter (PDF) in response to the Department of Education's proposed rule that would introduce a new earnings measurement system for all higher education programs, including MDs.
Under the proposal, programs would be evaluated by comparing graduates’ median earnings four years after program completion to those of bachelor’s degree holders in the same field. Programs that fall below the benchmark could risk losing Direct Loan eligibility. If finalized as proposed, the provisions would take effect July 1 [refer to Washington Highlights, April 24].
In the comment letter, the AAMC requested clarification on the specific earnings benchmark that MD graduates would be measured against. In addition, the letter requests that the proposed earnings measurement system explicitly acknowledges the status of residents as trainees receiving stipends who have not yet reached their full earning potential.
The department is expected to release the final rule ahead of the July 1 implementation deadline.
- Washington Highlights