Winter is Service Learning season in the UCI School of Medicine! UCI is one of the few medical schools which require a service learning project of all students, and the program is designed to build on students’ particular interests in community service. Each year, approximately 50 projects are completed by students between the Winter quarters of the MS1 and MS2 years. These projects have had a significant positive impact over the years in domains such as mentorship of young people, transitions in health for incarcerated individuals, harm reduction among persons who use intravenous drugs, and food security in disadvantaged communities. Some projects involve collaboration with Family Medicine, including those focused on the FHC-SA Teaching Kitchen and CRECE Farm in Santa Ana. All students complete reflective writing on their experience and how the project affects their goals regarding community service as physicians.

The projects are ongoing, and students also appreciate help and mentorship. Please contact Dr. Vega, cpvega@hs.uci.edu if you wish to contribute to these efforts.

Approximately one year ago, the Department of Family Medicine invested in its commitment to diversity and health equity by awarding multiple grants of $5000 for community-based interventions by UCI FM faculty and residents. We have received positive reports on the outcomes of these projects, which range from reducing the digital divide among older adults to the promotion of healthy eating through engagement in an urban farm.

The Department is excited to be gearing up for another round of funding for health equity projects. Please stay tuned and stay engaged in community health!

For more information, please contact Dr. Charles Vega, cpvega@hs.uci.edu.