More physicians needed in Georgia; DOs are stepping up | Osteopathic medical care improves health outcomes | PCOM South Georgia hosts Opportunities Academy
Many areas in Georgia lack enough primary care physicians, and gaps in access to medical care are growing. Schools of osteopathic medicine will soon graduate a third of physicians, says Robert A. Cain, DO, president and CEO of the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine, and osteopathic physicians can help meet the need in rural areas. "Our philosophy is sort of draw from the local area, train in the local area, and then try to keep them in the local area," Dr. Cain said.
Osteopathic physicians are taught to focus on how patients want to be treated, partnering with patients in their care, says Robert A. Cain, DO, president and CEO of the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine, a record number of students have sought out osteopathic medical degrees. The two osteopathic medical schools in Alabama can help meet the needs of underserved areas and improve overall health outcomes through the training of primary care physicians, Dr. Cain said.
The Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine South Georgia Campus is holding its fourth Opportunities Academy, a summer program for high school students to provide exposure to health care careers. The students will participate in health care activities and learn college preparation skills, CPR and the importance of giving back.
Dixie Tooke-Rawlins, DO, president of the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, announced the promotions of three members of VCOM's leadership team. Debbie West, Ed.D., will serve as provost; Matthew Cannon, DO, has been promoted to senior dean; and Jim Rathmann, MS, will serve as vice president for information technology.
Professor Alla Sikorskii, Ph.D., of the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine's Department of Psychiatry and her research team have received a five-year $3.2 million grant from the NIH to develop tools for cancer survivors to manage symptoms, reduce costs and improve well-being. "As survivors go through treatment, the ultimate goal is to beat cancer, however, survivors' well-being during months and years of cancer treatment is very important," Sikorskii said.
According to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, 93% of cancer centers have a shortage of carboplatin, and 70% need more cisplatin. "Carboplatin and cisplatin remain the 'classical drugs' in the treatment of cancer," says pharmacologist Maria Pino, Ph.D., an associate professor at the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine. "This shortage can delay treatment, increasing psychological anxiety to the patient, family and all those involved in the patient's care."
The US Supreme Court is in the final week of its current term with several major rulings yet to be released, including decisions on affirmative action in higher education admissions, President Joe Biden's student loan forgiveness plan, LGBTQ rights and religious rights.
Today, June 28, 2023, marks a significant milestone as AACOM celebrates its 125th anniversary. This momentous occasion holds great significance for osteopathic medical students and DOs, as the formal acknowledgment by Congress recognizes the invaluable contributions of osteopathic care to patients and communities over the past 125 years. Read more about this bipartisan proclamation. Visit the 125th anniversary webpage to learn more about AACOM's history and watch videos celebrating our milestone anniversary.
We've invited Chett Pritchett, assistant director of admissions and outreach, Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine (OU-HCOM) to share how OU-HCOM emphasizes diversity, inclusion and the holistic approach to patient care. He discusses the challenges faced by Queer individuals, including barriers to accessing essential healthcare resources and the lack of conversations about gender-affirming care. Read more about the ongoing celebration of Pride and the values cherished within the osteopathic community this month and beyond.
Jane Carreiro, DO, has been elected as the new chair-elect of the Board of Deans for AACOM. Dr. Carreiro, currently serves as the vice president of health affairs and dean of the College of Osteopathic Medicine at the University of New England and brings a strong track record of success and extensive involvement in the osteopathic medical community. With her international leadership experience, she will contribute to AACOM's strategic planning and partnership with member colleges, addressing healthcare challenges and prioritizing patient care. Learn more about Dr. Carreiro and her unique perspective on OME.
