The first class of medical students admitted into Baystate Health's Population-based Urban and Rural Community Health (PURCH) track marked the completion of their second year of medical school and the initiation of their clinical training at a ceremony at the University of Massachusetts Medical School-Baystate campus.
Before an audience of their mentors, faculty, and deans, the Class of 2021 received specially designed pins commemorating their official transition from studying in the classroom to patient care at the bedside. (About the PURCH Class of 2021)
(Photo at right: Laura Schwartz proudly shows off her new PURCH pin.)
Ready for Greater Responsibility
In their third year of medical school, PURCH students take on greater responsibility for direct patient care as active members of healthcare teams in the hospital, community clinic, or physician's office.
Their clinical training comprises seven required core clerkships: Internal Medicine, Neurology, Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Psychiatry, Obstetrics/Gynecology, and Surgery. In addition, PURCH students participate in a variety of flexible clinical experiences—and can even create a "designer" experience to explore a passion or curiosity.
"I love this opportunity and am so thankful to be able to be in a small group of students in a large facility like Baystate where our learning is tailored to be as efficient and thorough as possible," said Daniel Wenzel, who is entering his 16-week Obstetrics-Gynecology clerkship.
Unique Academic/Community Partners Also Honored
The PURCH track emphasizes patient-centered community-based care. (How is PURCH Different?) Fittingly, contributions of Baystate's Community Faculty were also recognized at the May 8, 2019 ceremony.
The Community Faculty is a diverse group of individuals and representatives of community-based organizations who have received training to collaborate on educational initiatives and opportunities for PURCH students.
> Baystate Community Faculty Honored by Medical Students and Faculty