The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #74920

Reid Farris, University of North Dakota, 820 Broadway #3, Fargo, ND 58102, 218-791-4068, rfarris@medicine.nodak.edu

A student chapter of Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) was recently established at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences (UNDSMHS). Students recognized a paucity of awareness and educational opportunities in the areas of human rights, public health, and the global impacts of healthcare. Addressing the aforementioned deficits became the principal objective of the local chapter. One of the primary challenges to achieving this goal was enhancing education and awareness within the context of a geographical, experiential and perceived sociopolitical isolation. The national chapter of PHR was chosen as an umbrella organization and its agenda was adapted to meet recognized local needs. Certain goals were attained by utilizing a variety of programs including film festivals, speakers, letter writing, goods drives, informational displays and a medical equipment recycling program. Evidence of success can be found in increased student activism and awareness of issues addressed as well as an enhanced understanding of professional responsibility in the realm of population-based health and human rights locally, nationally and internationally. The success of the UNDSMHS chapter of PHR has been achieved in an environment in which active student participation in extracurricular and professional organizations has previously been minimal. It is hoped that the opportunities offered to students through local PHR events will encourage life long awareness, participation and advocacy for human rights both personally and professionally.

Learning Objectives:

• After reviewing the poster presentation, observers will be able to:
• 1. Understand the goals of the University of North Dakota student chapter of Physicians for Human Rights.
• 2. Describe the various methods employed to promote public health and human rights and to educate health professionals in a “rural” state.
• 3. Obtain ideas for public health and human rights programming oriented toward medical students.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.