(a) The General Assembly finds and declares that the purpose of the Delaware Institute of Medical Education and Research (DIMER), created in 1969 as an alternative to a state sponsored medical school, is sound and should be continued and strengthened. Delaware should continue to provide opportunities for Delaware residents to receive a medical education, but it would not be a wise use of resources for the State to build and maintain a medical school.
(b) The General Assembly finds and declares that the current arrangement between the State and Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University, which allows Jefferson to function as Delaware's medical school, is extremely valuable to the State and has produced benefits which far surpass the admission of 20 Delaware residents into Jefferson Medical College each year. The relationship with Jefferson Medical College through DIMER is built upon years of a solid working relationship and should be perpetuated.
(c) The General Assembly finds and declares that a new structure of the DIMER Board will more appropriately reflect DIMER's abilities to meet its responsibilities as outlined in this legislation.
(d) The General Assembly finds and declares that placing administration of DIMER within the Delaware Health Care Commission will enhance its ability to accomplish its goals and ensure that DIMER's future functions will be focused on promoting medical education while helping the State to meet its health-care needs.