October 31, 2023
The College of Community Health Sciences celebrated National Primary Care Week in October with a week of activities to recognize the importance of primary health care and primary care providers.
During the week, the College’s medical students and resident physicians participated in procedural workshops that focused on blood pressure, EKGs, chest X-rays and ear exams. They heard from panels of speakers about how to choose residency and fellowship programs, and the need for more primary care physicians. They also participated in a kickball game with faculty and enjoyed an ice cream social.
“This year’s Primary Care Week had really great attendance,” said Dr. Jane Weida, professor of family medicine with CCHS who coordinated the week of events with Dr. Ansley Baccus, assistant professor of family medicine with the College. “The students were extraordinarily enthusiastic in asking a lot of questions. The faculty panels on how to choose a residency and fellowship were the most popular activities we had. I think they had a good time and loved to learn from our faculty.”
Primary health-care professionals provide care for patients of all ages and for the full spectrum of needs – from preventive care and wellness exams to management of chronic conditions, to treatment of acute illness and accidents. Types of primary-care providers include family medicine physicians, pediatricians, internal medicine physicians, obstetrician-gynecologists and nurse practitioners.
National Primary Care Week is held every year during the first week of October.
