A New Era for Emergency Medicine in Oklahoma
The Department of Emergency Medicine at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine is a vital new clinical department poised to transform emergency care throughout the state. Approved by the OU Board of Regents in September 2024, the department was founded to address Oklahoma's urgent healthcare needs and support OU Health Sciences' mission to become a top-tier academic health center. This new chapter in emergency medicine is particularly significant as it was established ahead of the 30th anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing, a historical event that profoundly shaped the city's emergency response and healthcare systems. The department is committed to honoring this legacy by expanding capacity, advancing research, and strengthening emergency care statewide.
Leadership and Vision
Dr. Azeemuddin Ahmed, M.D., MBA, was appointed in March 2025 as the department's inaugural chair and clinical service chief. A nationally recognized leader in emergency medicine, Dr. Ahmed brings over 20 years of clinical and academic expertise from the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine. His experience includes founding and directing Emergency Medical Services divisions and fellowships, leading state EMS programs, and serving as a medical director for major venues. Under his visionary leadership, the department is positioned to advance OU Health Sciences' tripartite mission of outstanding clinical care, innovative education, and pioneering research.
The OU Health Advantage: Our Strategic Approach
For the first time in over 30 years, emergency physicians will be directly employed by OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center, Oklahoma's leading Level 1 trauma center. This integration will foster greater collaboration and advance clinical care, medical education, and research. The department will launch a new ACGME-accredited residency program and plans to develop fellowship programs. The curriculum will emphasize clinical mastery, scholarly inquiry, and humanistic patient care, preparing graduates to become leaders in emergency medicine and advocates for health equity. Faculty, staff, and trainees will work in a collaborative environment with experts across campus to improve health outcomes and reduce disparities for all Oklahomans.
Join Us in Shaping the Future of Emergency Medicine
The Department of Emergency Medicine is a powerful catalyst for advancing emergency care, education, and research in Oklahoma. Supported by the OU Board of Regents and OU Health Sciences, the department provides an environment where clinicians, educators, and researchers work together to translate discoveries into improved patient care, disaster readiness, and health system resilience. We invite talented faculty, residents, fellows, and collaborators to join us as we build a future defined by excellence, compassion, and innovation.