NYU Robert I. Grossman’s School of Medicine’s hosts an annual summer intensive program called Project Healthcare.
As a member of Project Healthcare, students are given the unique opportunity to play an active role in patient care in one of NYU’s active Emergency Departments. Through hands on experience, in one of New York City’s level 1 Trauma Centers, volunteers are able to explore a diverse array of interests and are exposed to the reality of a career in medicine. The volunteers learn to function as patient advocates, and are also exposed to numerous aspects of patient care while working closely with the clinical staff.
In addition to the Emergency Department, which includes adult and pediatric emergency rooms (including trauma) as well as the Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program, all participants rotate through the Operating Room and Cardiac Catheterization Lab to observe and help facilitate care. They ride along with FDNY EMTs, and spend time with the Social Work staff where they learn about the social needs of patients suffering with issues such as domestic violence, sexual assault, substance abuse, and/or homelessness. Add to that, community engagement events, a topical and appropriate NYU medical curriculum and a social medicine course, this program is one of the most immersive of its kind.
The main function of the volunteers is patient advocacy. This directly translates to providing food and water to patients, providing blankets and clothing and, above all, emotional comfort by way of conversation and interaction. Volunteer participants also engage in concrete tasks such as making up stretchers, transporting patients, providing patient support during procedures, interpreting, assisting with undressing patients, and the stocking and preparation of equipment.
In the clinical area, they are afforded the opportunity to observe procedures, assist with custodial care, and interact with patients of varied cultural, social and economic backgrounds. While intermingling, at a teaching hospital, with all levels of clinical staff, they may also engage in active networking with RNs, residents, attending physicians, social workers, PCTs and ancillary personnel. In short, the program offers each participant an opportunity to further develop the skills of flexibility, compassion, and creativity, while addressing the demands of spontaneous situations.
More information and the application for Project Healthcare can be accessed through this link. The application for Project Healthcare 2020 is now open and will officially close on Wednesday, February 5th at 11:59pm.
The application requires the submission of a personal statement, an updated resume and two letters of recommendation. Please note that no particular previous experiences are required.
