The Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (KansasCOM), in partnership with League 42, hosted a health fair as part of the National DO Day of Service. This special day was not only a chance to support the Wichita community but also an educational opportunity for the 90 student doctors who volunteered. The event took place at League 42’s Leslie Rudd Learning Center.
The National DO Day of Service is an initiative that encourages osteopathic medical students and professionals across the country to give back to their communities. For KansasCOM, the choice to host a health fair was rooted in a commitment to address and educate about the social determinants of health, a commitment that is central to the osteopathic profession.
Our student doctors dedicated significant time to research and select the most impactful topics for the health fair, focusing on the specific needs of the 600 members of League 42. Ultimately, they staffed four informational booths and an additional physical exam station, each tailored to educate and engage the community regarding various health topics. Covering essential areas such as first aid and CPR, nutrition, skin care, dental health, and sports injury prevention, the booths provided a comprehensive range of valuable information, ensuring relevance and benefit for all attendees.
At the first booth, members of the Emergency Medicine Club, Simulation in Medicine Club, and Student Osteopathic Medical Association taught attendees about CPR and basic first aid. This hands-on training session allowed both children and adults to practice life-saving techniques under expert guidance.
The second booth, staffed by members of the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians, Medical Student Pride Alliance, and the Wellness Committee, provided insights into nutrition and hydration, particularly focusing on the needs of young athletes. They emphasized the importance of a balanced diet and proper hydration along with tips to adjust eating habits to match physical activity levels.
The third booth focused on skin and dental health with members of the Medical Student Society of the American Medical Association, American Medical Women’s Association, registered dermatology nurses, and a dental hygienist. This team provided free dental health kits and advice on oral hygiene, as well as education regarding the importance of protecting skin from UV damage, a crucial consideration for active kids in sports.
The fourth booth combined forces of the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons, Student National Medical Association, and Research Club to teach about the importance of proper stretching and common sports injuries. Interactive demonstrations helped athletes and their parents learn about dynamic and static stretching routines that enhance performance and minimize injury risks.
An additional feature of the health fair was the optional pre-participation exams conducted by second-year medical students under the supervision of KansasCOM’s clinician faculty. These exams were crucial in ensuring that the young athletes were ready for their upcoming sports season and free from musculoskeletal abnormalities or other health concerns.
This event highlighted KansasCOM’s dedication to developing a comprehensive understanding of health that reaches beyond the clinic or hospital and into the community. By educating about the social determinants of health, student doctors not only shared valuable health information but also gained firsthand experience in community medicine, reinforcing their roles as future health leaders poised to make a significant impact on public health.
The success of this event underscored the vital connection between education and community service, showcasing the core values of the osteopathic medical community. KansasCOM is committed to advancing toward a healthier and better-informed future for Kansas and beyond.