Junior Doctors of Healthİ: Comprehensive Obesity Prevention

Begun in 2004 between the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) and Wilmot J. Fraser Elementary School as a collaborative initiative, Junior Doctors of Health (JDH) addresses the needs of an underserved population by providing resources and leadership to promote health and disease prevention and fostering research links between the academic institutions. JDH targets vulnerable populations with health, educational, and socioeconomic disparities.

Using a comprehensive obesity prevention curriculum, MUSC health profession and biomedical research students teach elementary-age students about the importance of healthy eating and exercise, stressing a healthy lifestyle. JDH promotes interprofessional interaction between MUSC students and encourages public school students to continue their education, pursuing careers in health care. The program also targets teachers, parents, and the surrounding community, providing a comprehensive and unique approach to alter the health outcome and future of these students.

This presentation will review the development of a public health program with a sense of joint-ownership among the university, public school, and the community. Evaluation of program progress and success includes assessment of population needs, methods to engage parents and teachers in obesity prevention, and techniques for developing a sustainable infrastructure. The presentation will also include the integration of JDH as a service-learning project in the curriculum of MUSC students.