VCOM 2019 Annual Report

Appalachian Outreach Programs

Mini-Med Schools A cornerstone of VCOM’s mission is to train the next generation of physicians. “Mini-Medical Schools,” which allow rural high school students a view behind the scenes into the lives of medical students, are a key component. VCOM students, as part of their Appalachian Outreach and Interprofessional Early Clinical Experiences (IECE) training, assist faculty in conducting the program 14 Fridays a year. High school students rotate through six stations, each manned by VCOM students and dedicated to a common health problem. The program is designed to encourage high school students to consider healthcare as a potential career option. Each summer, VCOM hosts a two-week weekday camp for high school students, from rural areas and at-risk populations, with one week for boys and the other for girls. The Summer Enrichment Experience (SEE) is offered to rising sophomores, juniors and seniors and provides them with an introduction to human anatomy and medical science. Designed to encourage students to pursue careers in science and medicine, the SEE program also gives them an appreciation of the fundamentals of a healthy lifestyle. STEM Opportunities for Youth Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) are essential in the world of today and tomorrow. To promote interest in healthcare careers and share their experiences with students from rural and underserved areas, VCOM students and faculty provide a number of STEM programs to local schools. Summer Enrichment Experience (SEE)

VCOM-Virginia Ongoing Outreach

• Preventive Medicine Community Outreach (PMCO) wellness screenings for local communities • Primary care services at Free Clinics by VCOM students and faculty mentors • Mini-Med Schools • Health and wellness programs for community events • Outreach programs to rescue missions and remote communities

VCOM-Carolinas Ongoing Outreach

• Community Wellness Screenings at community events, schools and service organizations • Mini-Med Schools • Primary care services at Free Clinics by VCOM students and faculty mentors • Living Well with Diabetes! program • Rural outreach medical care programs

VCOM-Auburn Ongoing Outreach

• Mini-Med Schools • Health and wellness screenings at community events • Monthly primary care services to rural communities without medical care • Living Well with Diabetes and Hypertension! program

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

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