Dr. Jill Murray from Lackawanna College &
Dr. Mark Speicher from American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine

The Northeast Pennsylvania Clinical Education Consortium (NEPCEC) represents a pioneering partnership between the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM), Lackawanna College, and several regional healthcare organizations. This collaboration aims to address systemic challenges in medical education and community health by establishing a comprehensive clinical education program for osteopathic medical students in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

Objectives:

• Current Realities, Opportunities, and Challenges:
• We will explore the systemic challenges faced by medical schools in providing high-quality clinical opportunities.
• Our presentation highlights the collaborative efforts required to establish NEPCEC, including support from local government and healthcare institutions.
• Insights and Transformational Research:
• We will review the unique community-based research rotation designed to immerse medical students in the local healthcare environment.
• Both leaders discuss the benefits of community-engaged research for students and the community, including support for student health and well-being, professional identity development, high quality learning experiences, improved population health, enhanced patient experiences, and possible longer-term economic and health impacts.
• Commercialization and Collaboration:
• This presentation showcases the innovative model of the NEPCEC, which includes reserved clinical rotation spots, academic and logistical support, and integrated community involvement.
• We share our long-term vision of fostering ties between medical students and the community, leading to potential residency placements and professional practices in the region.

Key Highlights:

• Partnerships and Collaboration:
• The consortium comprises five clinical partners, including Allied Services Healthcare, Commonwealth Health, Scranton Primary Health Care Center, and The Wright Center. Each partner plays a critical role in providing clinical rotations and support for the medical students.
• Community Benefits:
• Emphasize the holistic approach to clinical rotations, addressing social determinants of health and promoting health equity.
• Detail the significant impact on the local healthcare workforce, with students potentially staying in the region for residencies and beyond.
• Research and Education:
• Highlight the development of research skills and methodologies among students, contributing to the body of knowledge in community health.
• Explain how the program enhances students' attractiveness to residency programs, particularly those emphasizing community health and research.

Conclusion:

The NEPCEC stands as a model of innovation and collaboration in medical education, demonstrating how community partnerships can address healthcare challenges and transform regional health landscapes. By engaging medical students in community-based research and clinical rotations, NEPCEC not only enhances their educational experience but also strengthens the local healthcare network, fostering a sustainable pipeline of healthcare professionals committed to serving their communities.