VCOM - Carolinas 2016 Yearbook

Appalachian Outreach

VCOM–Carolinas students volunteer their time during the summer to coordinate and assist with the SEE Program, sharing a glimpse of the medical career path with local, underserved high school students.

M edical students and faculty at VCOM enhance their skills in providing patient-centered medicine through outreach in the Appalachian region. Second-year medical students are actively involved in community outreach through early clinical experiences (ECEs) and volunteer outreach at local area health fairs, free clinics, and other services, all while receiving instruction from VCOM faculty and staff. As part of their Appalachian outreach training, VCOM students assist faculty in hosting “Mini-Medical Schools” promoting healthy behaviors and

providing a glimpse of what it is like to be a medical student, for the benefit of rural high school students. Students and faculty also volunteer with Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) programs to share their experience with rural students who are interested in entering healthcare careers. On a larger scale, students assist faculty in hosting the Summer Enrichment Experience (SEE) Program, which offers week-long “summer day camp” opportunities for local, underserved high school students. During the week, high school aged participants are immersed in the healthcare

field, with activities ranging from research to the anatomy lab and a tour of a medical transport helicopter. VCOM students also oversee the PLAY program, encouraging local elementary school students to stay active. Through Appalachian outreach, VCOM students gain experience in public and environmental health, as well as providing care for patients who live in poor socioeconomic conditions. Medical outreach experiences are a key component in educating students to provide healthcare in challenging environments.

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