VCOM 2017 Annual Report

inspired by caring

inspired by the people we care for

Dean Sutphin, PhD Vice Provost of International and Appalachian Outreach

T he International and Appalachian Outreach programs at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) have seen an inspiring year of growth and development through our international clinics, partnerships, and research endeavors. This year marked the first participation in global outreach efforts by VCOM–Auburn, with over 100 second-year students and faculty traveling to Santa Rosa and Tegucigalpa, Honduras, and to the Dominican Republic. In terms of international program growth and opportunities for clinical education, VCOM has reported a number of new and exciting developments. In the Dominican Republic, where VCOM operates a full-time, sustainable clinic, a new pediatric care clinic is currently under construction. The VCOM-affiliated clinic in El Salvador saw many facility improvements this year, including dental and pediatric services, X-ray and electronic records. In Tegucigalpa, Honduras, the College-affiliated clinic received a new roof, and plans are in the works for the renovation of exam rooms, pharmacy, triage, and construction of a new laboratory. Additionally, in Santa Rosa, Honduras, the local government has granted designated facilities for VCOM to use during medical outreach trips. The success of the VCOM outreach programs would not be possible without our new and standing partnerships both locally and internationally. In addition to our growing number of community partners in Virginia, South Carolina, and Alabama, the College has developed relationships with international colleges and organizations to provide translators during outreach trips, as well as lodging for students and faculty. Through international and Appalachian outreach experiences, VCOM faculty and students seek not just to treat, but to improve the health of rural and underserved populations. Ongoing research activities inspire new discoveries and opportunities for preventive patient care and education, reinforcing the VCOM mission to prepare globally-minded, community-focused physicians to serve those most in need.

2016-2017 OVER 380 pa r t i c i pa t ed i n I NTERNAT I ONAL ou t r e a c h t r i p s . OVER 240 FIFTEEN WEEK-LONG INTERNATIONAL OUTREACH TRIPS IN 2016-2017 medical students appalachian outreach events including free clinics, mini-med schools & preventative outreach.

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