VCOM 2017 Annual Report

inspired by innovation

International Research

V COM’s international mission program is built on community partnerships, from relationships with ministries of health, to the participation of village leaders. VCOM works closely with these communities through local universities, schools, churches, community clinics and orphanages. The excellent international relationships and community trust VCOM has established over many years are what drives this international community health research initiative. The College is focused on conducting preventive and public health research with the goal of increasing the community knowledge of healthy living, disease prevention, and good nutrition, as well as determining better options for access to care. VCOM’s current international research includes infectious disease studies, women’s and children’s health studies, and studies on improving access to healthcare.

Zika Research Year-Long Campaign VCOM students collected data from international outreach sites, focusing on patient knowledge of Zika virus prevention, health impact and follow-up. Zika Education Year-Long Campaign Provided targeted health education brochures to (1) women of child-bearing age, (2) men in sexual relationships, and (3) the general public. ICD Logger Pilot Test Collected data on student medical activities and procedures during outreach trips, in order to provide new information for student portfolios and VCOM database of skill development. Water Quality Assessment Kenny Brock, DVM, PhD, VCOM–Auburn associate dean for biomedical affairs and research, examined water samples at VCOM international sites to determine pathogens to address specific problems through intervention, education, and clinical treatment.

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