Students are first group in unique program with UofL Health doctors
February 26, 2023 - Thirty three students from Central High School's pre-medical magnet program have added a new piece to their wardrobes - a white coat similar to the ones the doctors and other clinical staff members at UofL Health wear. The high school juniors received the white coats at a ceremony honoring them as the first group of students to participate in a unique program set up by UofL Health, the University of Louisville School of Medicine and the Falls City Medical Society.
The program gives West Louisville students a first hand look at the medical field as they shadow doctors, scrub into operating rooms and witness surgeries, and practice performing simpler procedures, like suturing. UofL Health officials are hoping the experience leads more students of color to enter the medical field.
“I’m so proud of these students and I know that programs like this work. We already have and will continue to see the changes it makes to our community,” said Dr. Edward Miller, UofL Physicians – OB/GYN & Women’s Health and assistant professor in the department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health at the School of Medicine. “We’ve already connected dozens of students to meet, work with and befriend doctors, nurses and so many more health care professionals, and eventually that number will turn to hundreds, then thousands. These students will no longer be able to say that they have never seen a doctor that looks like them.”
The students rotated through each of the core medical clerkships from OB/GYN to emergency medicine in an effort to learn which field best suits them. In their senior year, they’ll choose which area of medicine they wish to pursue and have one-on-one mentorship with leaders in those specialties.
"In the hospital we are given a clear image of our future selves," said Morgan McCormick, Central High School junior. "I see it so I can, and will, be it."
The program is already accepting applications for another group of Central students to enter the program next school year.
“Donning a white coat holds special significance for our students,” said Dr. Marty Pollio, JCPS Superintendent. “Being viewed as a member of the UofL Health team is a tremendous opportunity as our students get hands on experience with the doctors and other health care professionals whose footsteps many of them hope to follow.”