MSHAC provides volunteers with an extraordinary opportunity to help a group of people who might otherwise not have adequate access to the healthcare system. MSHAC volunteers learn much, much more than simply practical application of classroom knowledge. Outside of the confines of a clinic, volunteers have a chance to gain a unique insight into the lives of their patient and the intricacies of his/her life. In addition, students learn the invaluable lessons that come with working on an interdisciplinary healthcare team. You quickly learn the limitations of your own knowledge and the power of the combined team knowledge. By conquering both the obvious and unforeseen conflicts that inevitably arise when working on a team, students leave MSHAC with an increased awareness and preparedness for the challenges that they will face in their professional careers.
Roles Students Play in Mobile SHAC:
Team Leader: The team leader is in charge of ensuring that his/her team's patient is contacted on a regular basis and making certain that the monthly visit occurs. The leader is also in charge of contacting the preceptor and coordinator when problems arise.
Medical Students and Nursing Students: At each visit vital signs are taken and recorded. This includes monitoring glucose levels for diabetics. Through informal medical interviews students assess patients' general health and explore any questions or concerns they may have. Students should provide education about medical problems and treatments in addition to giving information about community resources as needed.
Pharmacy Students: Students are responsible for documenting and updating a list of medications for each patient. Students should be on the look out for medication contraindications and adverse side affects. A coordinator and preceptor should be contacted if suspicion arises. Assess patients' compliance and knowledge about their medications. Provide education when it is needed.
Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Students: Students assess the patients' home, mobility, and day to day tasks. Discuss findings with a preceptor to determine plan for further visits or referral to another organization if needed.
Social Work Students:
Students assess the social and living situation of the patient through observation and discussion.
They then formulate and execute a plan to remedy the problems by linking patients to organizations
and arranging for outside help when needed.