Potential sale of Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare sparks concerns over FAMU training access

City of Tallahassee leaders are weighing the possible sale of Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare (TMH) amid proposed governance changes that would reduce municipal oversight, raising questions about the future of clinical training for FAMU healthcare students. The move comes as FSU leaders have expressed its interest in seeing TMH transformed into an academic medical center, potentially under the FSU umbrella. 

FSU is already in the process of constructing a $125 million FSU Health building which is slated to open in 2026 on the TMH campus.

Governance shifts and ownership stakes
TMH, owned by the City of Tallahassee, operates under a unique arrangement: the city holds all assets—land, buildings, and equipment—while leasing them to TMH’s nonprofit operator for $1 annually. The hospital receives no local tax funding and independently manages operations. Now, TMH leaders propose creating a new governance board without city confirmation authority, arguing it would enhance flexibility for “strategic partnerships” in a consolidating healthcare landscape.

City staff, however, warn the change could diminish public accountability. “Any loss of oversight must be balanced against community interests,” said a city spokesperson. The discussion has sparked broader debate about the potential sale of TMH’s city-owned assets, though no formal plans have been proposed.

FSU’s expanding footprint vs. FAMU’s training needs
FSU’s ongoing construction of the FSU Health building on TMH’s campus signals growing collaboration, part of a years-long effort to formalize a partnership. But TMH’s pivotal role as a training hub for FAMU’s nursing, pharmacy, and allied health students has injected urgency into the debate. Over 300 FAMU students annually rely on TMH for clinical rotations, a requirement for degree completion.

Healthcare experts warn that an FSU-controlled academic hospital could prioritize its own students, sidelining FAMU. “Clinical placements are fiercely competitive. If FSU gains operational influence, FAMU risks losing access overnight,” said Dr. Linda Greene, a healthcare education consultant. FAMU officials declined to comment but have historically emphasized TMH’s “critical role” in their programs.

TMH’s independence in the balance
TMH officials reiterated the hospital’s commitment to remaining a “community-focused provider,” but acknowledged the need to adapt to industry trends. FSU has not detailed how a potential governance shift would affect partnerships with FAMU or other institutions.

City Commissioner Jack Porter stressed the stakes: “TMH isn’t just a hospital—it’s a public asset. Any decision must protect equitable access for all educational partners.” 

What’s next?
The Tallahassee City Commission is expected to have "a robust discussion at tomorrow's City Commission meeting at 3p.m. at City Hall. 

No word yet, if FAMU’s College of Pharmacy, School of Nursing, or School of Allied Health is evaluating contingency plans for clinical rotations if TMH’s structure shifts.

Either way, FAMU advocates urge safeguards for student training. FSU leaders have made no mention of how their proposed takeover would affect FAMU.