To
date, the summer prematriculation and preclinical programs
have allowed 212 M-1 and M-2 students to get an introduction
to rural practice. At the point of the last published report,
90% of these students who had entered residencies chose
primary care (1). In addition, since 1999 these students
have completed a rural community assessment as part of
their summer activities (2). These assessment reports
have formed the basis for the development of health advisory
councils in the four rural counties around Madisonville.
In collaboration with the UK Center for Rural Health and
the Delta project, these advisory councils have functioned
to guide grants for community development and further health
assessments.
The 3-4 week summer Preclinical Program is an opportunity
for U of L Trover Rural Track medical students to gain clinical experience
and experience as well as learn to assess a rural site
as a future practice opportunity prior to entering their
M-2 academic year.
Students are involved in classroom activities that begin
to prepare them for the clinical setting. This curriculum
is hands-on training that teaches the students various
clinical skills and the details of the physical examination.
Physician preceptors provide shadowing opportunities.
Recently, a focus on providing free physical exams in
the community has been added with about 80 examinations provided free to 6th graders and kindergarteners each summer.
Preclinical Group Activities
Overview of Patient Evaluation
Well Baby Exam
Pelvic Exam
Breast Exam
Suturing Lab
Prostate/Rectal Exam
Heart and Breath Sounds
Sports Physical Exam
Video otoscopy
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References
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Brooks B, Crump B, Martin D. Community Assessment
Using the Key Informant Method: A Snapshot of Some Rural
Communities from the Perspective of Community Leaders.
Journal of the Kentucky Medical Association 2000; 98:27-30.
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Todini CR, Crump WJ. Building a regional clinical
campus: experience with preclinical students. Fam Med.
1999; 31:6-7.
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