Evolution of a Student Directed Free Clinic: Two Decades of Community Engagement at a Small Regional Campus

Abstract

This report summarizes the 20 year evolution of community engagement at a small regional rural campus. The process includes establishing a student directed free clinic and its transition through the wider availability of Medicaid expansion. Next came the transition to telemedicine care during the Covid pandemic and eventually to a recurring pop up mobile clinic at a local homeless shelter. Invitations from the host community then resulted in conducting health screenings at local food banks with portable clinics planned there as well. At each stage we were directed by community steering committees and advisory councils, and we discuss their roles. We found that it is important to go where and when we are invited rather than making these choices based on our convenience. We provide details of student perspectives, planning and finances for those who are considering similar activities.