VCOM 2021 Annual Report

OUTREACH

Making a Difference in Our Communities

Adaptability is key to serving where we are needed most

V COM’s goal of serving the underserved draws students from all across the United States. Our students are committed to the College’s Mission as they become globally- minded, community-focused physicians serving those most in need. This is perhaps most clearly seen in our ongoing outreach efforts, both in the Appalachian and Delta regions and internationally. To support the students’ efforts to fulfill the Mission, VCOM works year-round to develop partnerships, research endeavors, clinical opportunities and facility improvements to ensure students and alumni can follow where their hearts lead, providing care wherever their journeys may take them. In the wake of COVID-19, all international outreach trips were canceled during the 2020-2021 school year, for the safety of VCOM students, faculty and staff as well as the communities served. To do their part to combat the global pandemic, VCOM students channeled their outreach efforts into the local community. Over the last year, our regional outreach efforts focused on organizing and implementing numerous donation drives and vaccine clinics held at churches, schools and health clinics throughout our surrounding communities. ■

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