Oral

This session will focus on underutilized means of improving health care of individuals and systems. One study will discuss clinic-based community organizing and mobilization efforts as representing an important, underutilized tool in improving individual and population-level health status. Additionally, compared to other civic institutions, AMCs have been underutilized as a means of increasing civic engagement among patients, particularly in marginalized communities. Weak relationships between lay civic groups and health care institutions diminish the effectiveness of health advocacy. Few models for civic engagement among AMCs and teaching hospitals have been developed. Lastly, the session will explore the use of government sponsored medical schools and training/payback time.

Session Objectives: 1. Identify clinic-based opportunities for community and civic engagement 2. Describe potential assocaitons between civic engagement facilitated by health care organizations and health outcomes 3. Identify ways that VA medical schools and mentoring can contribute to increase in primary care as a medical specialty

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH) , Masters Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES)