SITE COORDINATOR: John Bergren, M.D.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Petersburg is small island community separated by about 40 miles of forest and ocean in central southeast Alaska. It is a popular cruise ship and tourist destination along the Inside Passage. Both towns, Wrangell and Petersburg can be reached by Alaska Airlines and the Alaska Marine Highway ferries. The main industries are fishing and fish processing, timber and tourism. The downtown areas are adjacent to the docks and the medical facilities are within walking distance. You can expect to serve a diverse population, which includes Native American, Scandinavian and a variety of other ethnic groups that make up these unusual communities. Indoor and outdoor recreation opportunities abound so bring equipment and clothing to match the season. Expect rain!

The Faculty: Dr. Bergren will coordinate the Petersburg clerkship, to provide medical care and student teaching at Petersburg Medical Center, as well as other health care agencies within each community. You may expect to provide a wide variety of emergency, acute and chronic services in these rural communities where specialist services are generally not available. The FP’s staff the emergency room and clinic as well as rounds in the adjacent hospital and nursing home. One of the newest clerkship sites, the faculty and office staff are pleased to be working with students and integrating them into their practices.

Housing: An apartment will be provided near town with general furnishings, including towels, bedding, dishes and internet access and local telephone service is provided. Please arrange your own long distance service.

Transportation: A car will be provided. It should be clean and full of gas when you arrive. Please make sure you leave it in the same condition.