NEWARK, NJ – According to officials, on Tuesday, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School (NJMS) and University Hospital wrapped up Hispanic Heritage Month by welcoming students from Park Elementary School in Newark, and their families, to promote healthy living in the Latino community and inspire students to pursue a career in medicine.
Rutgers New Jersey Medical School officials say the outreach event will feature five interactive student stations, led by faculty, residents and medical students, as well as a health fair and luncheon for parents or caregivers.
The student stations will include an anatomy lab, a suture station, and an ultrasound demonstration, among other hands-on presentations, according to officials.
Officials say the health fair included preventative care screenings, such as diabetes and blood pressure checks, and information on various NJMS “pipeline” and community outreach programs offered for local students and families.
Hispanic Heritage Month outreach events at NJMS and UH have been spearheaded by Dr. Melissa M. Alvarez-Downing, an assistant professor in the department of surgery at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, and a colorectal surgeon at University Hospital.
“Our Student Health Sciences Day will give us an invaluable opportunity to connect with the Latino community in Newark,” said Dr. Melissa M. Alvarez-Downing.
“The hands-on student stations are designed to inspire the next great physician to take that first step towards a career in medicine, while just down the hall, their families will learn more about how to stay healthy and support kids on that journey.”
“University Hospital remains a committed partner with Newark Board of Education, especially as the trusted cornerstone for health care and education for students,” said Dr. Shereef Elnahal, CEO and President of University Hospitals.
“As we team up with Rutgers New Jersey Medical School to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re reminded of how important it is for patients and medical students to have access to providers who can draw on their own personal experiences with diversity to foster a stronger connection.
It’s one of the reasons why we are uniquely equipped to care for this community.”