The specialty of Family Medicine has a long history of caring for people of all ages in their communities. This course will provide students with unique experiences in a rural community so that they may better understand the "art of doctoring" and the role of a physician leader. This course is specially designed for members of the Rural Physician Leadership Program but would benefit all physicians-in-training. The community immersion will give students opportunities to work with city/county government, local school systems, public health departments, the chamber of commerce, first responders, and health services outside the hospital setting (i.e. nursing homes, home health, medical equipment suppliers, free clinics, dental clinics, retail pharmacy). Students will also participate in self-directed activities that are essential to practice in a rural community (i.e. free study for continuing education, wellness, and an individualized community project).

The specialty of Family Medicine has a long history of caring for people of all ages in their communities. This course will provide students with unique experiences in a rural community so that they may better understand the "art of doctoring" and the role of a physician leader. This course is specially designed for members of the Rural Physician Leadership Program but would benefit all physicians-in-training. The community immersion will give students opportunities to work with city/county government, local school systems, public health departments, the chamber of commerce, first responders, and health services outside the hospital setting (i.e. nursing homes, home health, medical equipment suppliers, free clinics, dental clinics, retail pharmacy). Students will also participate in self-directed activities that are essential to practice in a rural community (i.e. free study for continuing education, wellness, and an individualized community project).