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December 8, 2010
Medical Students Provide Free Medical Care
Over fifty students and four physicians from the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine – Virginia Campus (VCOM) participated in a healthcare outreach program to the Pulaski Community on December 3, 2010. Over seventy local residents took advantage of the free services which included health screenings and consultative visits with medical students and physicians.
Students and a VCOM faculty member offered individuals who came for lunch at “Pulaski Daily Bread” the opportunity for health screenings in the lower level of the church. Blood pressure checks, blood glucose checks, and body mass evaluations were performed under faculty supervision by the VCOM medical students. Individuals with abnormal results were then referred to a “make shift clinic” in the church building next door. Several patients went directly to the clinic as well and free prescriptions were provided for those who needed them that day. Gifts bags with blankets, hats, gloves, and personal items, prepared by the VCOM medical students were also provided to the residents who participated.
Located in Blacksburg Virginia, VCOM’s mission is to educate students who are community minded and focused on helping those in need. Appalachian outreach programs such as this clinic are ways that students learn medicine but also learn about giving back to their community. According to Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs, Ronnie Martin, D.O., “Any program such as this one where you can make a difference in people’s lives and benefit others favorably is fantastic. Coupled with training our students with knowledge and skills they need as future physicians and helping them do something they truly enjoy is a great experience.”
For more information:
http://www.vcom.vt.edu/aboutvcom/
http://www.firstpresbyterianpulaski.org/history.html