Medical Students Gain Lifelong Lessons in Family Medicine Through FMFM Externship Program PDF Print Email
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Wednesday, October 09, 2024 10:50 AM

Medical Students Gain Lifelong Lessons in Family Medicine Through FMFM Externship Program

The Family Medicine Foundation of Michigan (FMFM) continues to provide invaluable opportunities for medical students to immerse themselves in family medicine through their externship program. Each year, students work alongside experienced family physicians and gain hands-on experience in clinical and community settings, offering a comprehensive look into family medicine.

Stephen Venable, M3 at Wayne State School of Medicine, recently completed his externship at the CHASS Center in Detroit under the mentorship of Richard Bryce, DO. Dr. Bryce serves as the chief medical officer at the Community Health and Social Services Center (CHASS). 

Venable experienced routine patient care and specialized services such as joint injections, ultrasounds, and gender-affirming care. Venable's time at the CHASS Center also highlighted the deep connection between family physicians and the communities they serve. In addition to clinical duties, Venable participated in community events such as setting up a local market that offers fresh produce and even ran in the CHASS Center's 5K. Venable said the experience demonstrated how the clinic is much more than just a healthcare facility — it is a vital part of the community's fabric. Reflecting on his experience, Venable said the externship allowed him to "explore the breadth and depth of family medicine."

Venable also emphasized his participation in Street Medicine Detroit, where he offered care to the city's underserved populations in non-traditional settings, as one of his most significant experiences. It was here that he realized that "there is no place that family medicine does not touch."

Claire Lupini, M2 at Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, had an impactful experience working with Scott Ross, MD and the MyMichigan Family Medicine Residency Program. Lupini spent time both in the outpatient clinic and on the labor and delivery floor, gaining invaluable insights into the continuity of care family physicians provide. Lupini's time on the labor and delivery floor also solidified her passion for maternal health, which she hopes to incorporate into her future practice, especially in rural settings.

"This externship was an amazing learning experience and allowed me to gain an indispensable understanding of the role that a family physician plays in their communities," she said. "I am beyond excited to be able to continue my education and training to hopefully become a great family doctor one day."

Venable and Lupini said the externship experience allowed them to see firsthand the wide-reaching impact of family medicine.

"I truly feel that it is an honor to be a part of this profession providing care in whatever form and wherever it is needed the most," Venable said.

Each extern receives a $2,000 stipend upon completion, with family physician mentors receiving a $500 stipend. This program is made possible through the support of FMFM and matching grants from the AAFP Foundation, underscoring the commitment to nurturing the next generation of family physicians. If you are a medical student interested in exploring family medicine and its integral role in communities, consider applying for an externship.