Care of the Underserved Distinction Program | Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

Care of the Underserved Distinction Program

GOALS

The Care of the Underserved Distinction Program was created to provide medical students the opportunity to work with vulnerable, underserved communities. These communities often have less access to equitable healthcare services. Creating connections and fostering trust within these communities is vital. This program will provide students an opportunity to broaden their experiences and help them gain a better understanding of the barriers that underserved communities face. 

PROGRAM TIMEFRAME

Students will begin the program as an incoming first year and participate through the end of the fourth year. Upon successfully completing the program requirements,  the Care of the Underserved Distinction will be awarded and recognized at graduation.

PROGRAM SECTIONS

The Care of the Underserved Distinction Program is divided into six sections, each of which has a minimum point requirement along with other section specific requirements.

  • SECTION 1: Program Meetings will take place at least 3 times per semester. 
  • SECTION 2: Patient Care is a huge aspect of the program. In caring for underserved populations, students will gain an appreciation and better understanding of equitable healthcare obstacles and gain the ability to recognize unexpressed needs patients may have.
  • SECTION 3: Student organizations have a proven correlation with academic success, improved communication skills, improved leadership skills and mastering teamwork.  As a part of this program, students will be required to participate in student organizations that help underserved communities.
  • SECTION 4: Community service allows students to identify new passions while giving back to underserved populations. It can also help to remind students of their “why” and renew their sense of purpose.
  • SECTION 5: Charitable Events within the community. 
  • SECTION 6: Final Scholarly Project is an important part of the program that allows the student to expand their knowledge of the different aspects of caring for underserved communities. It also provides students the opportunity to hone their critical thinking skills.

For more information on the Care of the Underserved Distinction Program, please contact Felix.Morales@ttuhsc.edu OR Christina.Gomez@ttuhsc.edu