York University in Canada is set to receive C$25m ($17.8m) from York Region for supporting its new School of Medicine, scheduled to open to students in 2028.

The funding will support the physical infrastructure and development of the new facility, which will be located in the Vaughan Healthcare Centre Precinct, adjacent to the Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital.

The announcement marks a milestone as the university expands its engagement with local physicians and collaborates with technology and health partners, including Oak Valley Health, Mackenzie Health, the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) and Southlake Health.

York Region’s contribution builds on the Government of Ontario’s existing commitments dedicated to the medical school’s startup costs.

The City of Vaughan has donated land for the school, further supporting the project’s development.

These combined investments are part of the government’s efforts to enhance the sustainability of the healthcare system, improve access to primary care, address physician shortages, and expand medical education.

The School of Medicine will be designed around a community-based primary care model, focusing on patient-centred practice, inter-professional collaboration, and equity.

Its location within the Vaughan Healthcare Centre Precinct will enable connections between community health services, clinical training, and research.

York Region chairman and CEO Eric Jolliffe said: “York Region is proud to support this important investment in training future physicians right here in our own community. By contributing C$25m to York University’s new School of Medicine, we are helping ensure that families across our communities have better access to the care they need, closer to home.

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to strengthening the health and well-being of residents and building a future where everyone in York Region can thrive.”