U.S.-MEXICO BORDER HEALTH SCHOLARS PROGRAM
The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UTHSCSA)—the UT medical school that serves the South Texas/Border Region—offers unique field experiences at the U.S.-Mexico Border for students enrolled in U.S. MD/MPH, medical, public health, and other health professions degree programs. This 4-week elective is presented by the South Texas Environmental Education and Research (STEER) program, based in Laredo since 1996 and Harlingen since 2004.
Housing and tuition provided for enrolled students/residents
Stipends available for Family and Community Medicine Residents
WHO ATTENDS? Several times each year, approximately 7 to 15 students from accredited health professions schools across the country are invited to join the Border Health Scholars Program. Participants study Harlingen/Matamoros for 4 weeks. More than 400 health professions students from 30 states have participated in this 4-week experience. Spanish is not required.
CAN I GET CREDIT FOR THIS? Most institutions grant 3-4 credits toward a medical degree, public health or other health professions degree, or cross-credits for an MD/MPH degree. We are happy to provide any information your school requires.
WHAT WILL I LEARN? If you are interested in international health, public health, or environmental health, this is an unforgettable in vivo experience that will help you see new career opportunities. You will learn from dozens of health practitioners in clinics and hospitals, researchers, promotoras (community health workers), and front-line public health workers on both sides of the Border. These dedicated individuals face the challenges of emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, rapid growth and industrialization, poverty, lack of sanitation, and water pollution. You will explore cultural differences that impact health and medical practice, and learn about community-based research in childhood asthma, diabetes and obesity. You will hear about a host of environmental exposures, including pesticides among migrant farm workers, lead, mercury, indoor air pollutants, mold, allergens, and exposures that can affect the endocrine, nervous and respiratory systems. Experts will teach you about binational TB programs, migrant farm work issues, rabies and vector control. You will participate in instructional visits to colonias, farmacias (Mexican Pharmacies), as well as learn about ship inspections. And you will have ample time to reflect upon your experiences with your instructors and classmates while you enjoy a colorful, historic, and culturally rich region.
WHAT PARTICIPANTS SAY:
“Uniquely the best program I have attended in my academic career. It taught me invaluable information that will stick with me for a lifetime.”
“The issues facing South Texas are in large measure those facing the nation and, more importantly, the planet. I wish that all of my colleagues, indeed all Americans, could have this kind of experience.”
“A phenomenal ‘eye opener.’”
WHEN IS THE PROGRAM OFFERED? Openings are available in the following 2008 session:
LAREDO, TEXAS / NUEVO LAREDO
July 7 – August 1
HOW CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION? See our website http://steer.uthscsa.edu for information and a downloadable application, or contact us directly: steer@uthscsa.edu. STEER is directed by Claudia S. Miller, M.D., M.S., Professor, Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Vice Chair for Community Medicine in the Department of Family & Community Medicine, UTHSCSA. Available activities vary with site and time of year. Ask us for sample calendars.
AWARDS STEER HAS RECEIVED:
Spirit of the Land Award, Salt Lake Olympic Organizing Committee
Texas Environmental Excellence Award, Texas State Governor’s Award
Partnership Award, Association of Physician Assistant Programs
