VCOM College Catalog and Student Handbook

Consensual relationships between patients and students, which extend beyond supervised patient care requirements are also not allowed. Sexual activity is not permitted in clinical settings. If a student, faculty, or staff member has access to information that is considered confidential through a relationship outside the academic setting, this is considered unethical behavior and a violation of FERPA.

Students having questions regarding such relationships should direct them to the Campus Dean.

Dress Code As a representative of the VCOM Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine Program, a student’s personal appearance is an extension of the program and will, to some degree, determine how others view the student, the program, and the profession. VCOM is a professional school; therefore, students are expected to dress and conduct themselves in a professional manner. Appearance guidelines are intended to promote patient comfort, support infection control, and uphold the professional standards expected of healthcare providers. Specific expectations may vary by clinical site and are subject to their discretion. Those students who are not dressed appropriately will be informed so. If the issues are recurrent or not resolved, the student will be referred to the Honor Code Council or Professional and Ethical Standards Board. See further information below. Universal Personal Care Standards The dress of a student on campus or in the clinical setting should be one that demonstrates use of good hygiene, appearing clean, and without unpleasant body odor or bad breath. Bathing and brushing teeth regularly, as well as using deodorant and/or antiperspirant daily is recommended. Students should be aware they are working with the public and personal hygiene is of the utmost importance. To prevent the transmission of healthcare-associated infections and promote best practices in infection prevention, as well as for general hygiene, students should wash hands frequently (especially after using the restroom, before eating, and after touching potentially contaminated surfaces) in both the clinical and educational setting. Universal Clothing Standards Clothes (including casual clothing when permitted to be worn on campus) should be of a length, fit, and style that are appropriate for the professional academic environment. Clothing that reveals cleavage, back, chest, stomach or underwear is not appropriate at any time while on campus or in the clinical setting. Clothing should be non provocative in nature and demonstrates respect for fellow students and faculty. Torn, dirty, or frayed clothing is unacceptable. Any clothing that has words, terms, or pictures that may be offensive to other students, faculty, or staff is unacceptable. Universal Hair, Nail, and Cosmetics Standards Hairstyles and hair colors should maintain a professional appearance appropriate for clinical and academic environments. Hair, including facial hair, should be neatly groomed, clean, and of a length that does not interfere with student and/or patient safety (including interfering with standardized personal protective equipment) or ability to perform clinical duties. Hair must be secured away from the face when necessary for hygiene or patient safety. Unnaturally vivid hair colors (e.g., bright blue, green, or neon shades) or styles that may be considered non professional in clinical settings may be restricted in accordance with institutional or hospital policies. Appropriate cosmetic makeup use in medical school should support a professional, hygienic, and respectful academic and clinical presence. Makeup should be applied in a subtle and natural manner, using neutral tones and Treat and bandage all cuts and sores immediately, keeping them clean to prevent infection.

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