Detroit Allied Health Middle College
Background: The Detroit Allied Health Middle College
The Detroit Allied Health Middle College (DAHMC) was once located at Detroit Kettering High School. It emerged from a pioneering partnership among the Detroit Public Schools (DPS), the Wayne County Community College District (WCCCD), and the Detroit Medical Center (DMC). Its mission was to provide Detroit students with an early start in healthcare careers by combining high school and college coursework with practical clinical training. Students had the opportunity to graduate with both a diploma and college credits, paving the way for stable, well-paying careers in allied health fields.
Despite its achievements, DAHMC was disbanded during DPS’s financial crisis. Under Robert Bobb, the state-appointed Emergency Manager, extensive budget cuts and school closures were carried out with minimal regard for innovative programs. In efforts to stabilize finances, DAHMC—along with other progressive initiatives—was eliminated. Its closure signified systemic instability rather than a lack of effectiveness or necessity.
Why a New Allied Health Middle College is Needed
The conditions that inspired the original program are even more urgent today:
- Healthcare Workforce Shortage: Michigan continues to face a severe shortage of nurses, technicians, and allied health professionals. The aging population increases demand, while local training programs remain insufficient.
- Henry Ford Health System Expands: HFHS is growing its facilities and services in Detroit through its innovative Future of Health initiative; however, without a steady flow of local talent, it will need to bring in workers from outside the region, missing an opportunity to strengthen Detroit’s own workforce.
- Equity and Opportunity: Many Detroit youth still face obstacles in accessing affordable, accelerated career pathways. A revitalized middle college model offers them tuition-free college credits, industry certifications, and practical clinical experience.
A New Era: Michigan State University Partnership
Today, the opportunity to relaunch DAHMC comes with stronger and more diverse partnerships. Alongside Henry Ford Health System, Michigan State University (MSU) is dedicated to playing a key role in advancing this initiative. MSU’s medical and allied health expertise will ensure students receive top-tier training aligned with the most urgent workforce needs.
By connecting Detroit students to MSU’s academic resources, HFHS’s clinical infrastructure, and WCCCD’s accessible community college network, the new DAHMC will create a comprehensive education-to-employment pipeline. This alignment positions Detroit not only to train healthcare workers but also to retain them in the community, ensuring the program's benefits remain local.
The Case for Relaunching DAHMC
Reestablishing DAHMC will:
- Rebuild a proven model – Revive an initiative that has already demonstrated success in aligning education with healthcare labor needs.
- Support Regional Workforce Growth – Assist Henry Ford Health System and other healthcare providers in the region to develop a locally trained workforce.
- Leverage MSU’s Expertise – Work with one of Michigan’s top universities to ensure academic excellence and statewide recognition.
- Empower Detroit Youth – Provide accessible, affordable opportunities in one of the fastest-growing and most sustainable career fields.
In short, the original DAHMC ended due to alleged financial mismanagement and district restructuring, not because it failed. With new partners such as Henry Ford Health System and Michigan State University, the revived program is poised to become a key part of Detroit’s future healthcare and workforce.
