A pediatrician in the 21st century must be more than medically sophisticated. Advocacy for the diverse needs of children requires that pediatricians collaborate with other healthcare workers, government officials and leaders from different community agencies. The Community Pediatrics curriculum, including a four-week rotation during the PL-2 year, offers residents a unique opportunity to gain familiarity with the wide array of community-based organizations that advocate for children and families in the Milwaukee community, and trains residents to be optimal advocates for children and their families.
In 2000, the Medical College of Wisconsin was awarded a $2.5 million grant from the Dyson Foundation. The grant, one of only ten grants nationwide, recognizes this program's innovative approach to community and interdisciplinary professional collaboration.
Residents spend a four-week block during their second year gaining familiarity with community based organizations, and have the opportunity to work closely with graduate students in nursing, law, social welfare, public health, education and public policy on focused projects at community-based organizations. Core curriculum modules start each group on an equal footing with exposure to diverse topics such as Classism and Racism, Impact of Poverty, Healthcare Financing, Barriers to Service, Applied Public Policy and Ethics.
Residents gain competency in team-building skills, cultural sensitivity and awareness, multi-disciplinary care coordination and child advocacy.
For more information, visit the Community Pediatrics website.