The Patients R Waiting Medical Program is offering a transformative 12-week opportunity for diverse students from low-income families to step into the world of healthcare, gaining invaluable insight and hands-on experience. Currently running in Massachusetts and Pennsylvania, the program is designed to break down barriers in the medical field and provide aspiring healthcare professionals with the chance to explore and learn about the industry in ways that would otherwise be inaccessible.
As a participant in this exciting initiative, I’ve been given a rare opportunity to engage with healthcare professionals, participate in real-world experiences, and build the foundation for a future in medicine. The program kicked off with virtual classes every Tuesday and Thursday evening, lasting from 6 pm to 8 pm. During these sessions, we dive into topics such as health disparities, racial health inequities, and how to analyze and understand scientific research papers. But it’s not just about the theory. The program brings in real-life doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals, providing students with the chance to hear about their careers and ask questions about what it takes to succeed in the medical field.
In just the first three weeks, we’ve met inspirational figures such as Lashaya Walker, a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) and anesthesiologist, Mario Florez, a seasoned public health professional, and Dr. Ivan Shorter, an anesthesiologist practicing in Pennsylvania. Their stories, guidance, and real-world experience have already made a lasting impact on all of us.
Last Saturday, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the program’s first hands-on experience at UMass Chan Medical School. From the moment we arrived, the event felt like a professional medical environment. We were each given our own scrubs, sat down to a catered breakfast, and were assigned to our groups. The day was filled with learning and practice, all while being surrounded by future healthcare leaders.
We participated in lessons led by a cardiologist and a pre-med student assistant, learning how to listen for different heart sounds and understanding the anatomy of the heart. We also practiced basic sutures and stitches, and learned how to scrub in and sanitize before a surgery. The highlight of the day was getting to examine a real patient, ask questions, and try to diagnose their condition under the guidance of medical professionals.
The experience was not only educational but also deeply inspiring. As a student, I’ve been able to take my first steps into the healthcare field, all while gaining a better understanding of what it truly means to be part of the medical community. This program is designed to equip students like me with both the knowledge and hands-on skills to pursue careers in healthcare, all while addressing systemic barriers in access and opportunities.
As the program progresses, I look forward to continuing these hands-on sessions and gaining further insight into the medical profession. There are nine weeks left, and I’m excited to learn more from the professionals and instructors who continue to guide us.
For anyone interested in applying or learning more about this incredible opportunity, you can reach out to the program at [email protected]. The R Waiting Medical Program is breaking down walls and giving students a real chance to make a mark in the medical field. Whether you’re looking to become a doctor, nurse, or public health professional, this program is paving the way for the next generation of healthcare leaders.
