Peekskill, New York Summer Externship 2012

We are pleased to offer first year medical students the opportunity for a summer elective at the Hudson River HealthCare (HRHC) located in the Hudson River Valley of New York. This experience has been established to honor Michele Tracy's contributions to HRHC during her two years there as an Americorps/Vista volunteer, and continue the relationship Michele established. Michele was a second year UW medical student who was tragically killed while participating in an educational service program in Malawi Africa in July 1999.

Background on Hudson River Health Care

For 34 years, Hudson River HealthCare (HRHC) has provided innovative programs and services designed to meet the needs of at risk populations throughout New York State's Hudson Valley. In the early 1970's a group of local residents and religious leaders addressed the lack of appropriate health services in their community. In particular, a group of four women, fondly referred to as the founding mothers, spearheaded the efforts and have remained committed to the organization since its inception. They officially opened their doors in 1975 in order to provide health care to the underserved population of Peekskill. To meet the growing needs of the Hudson Valley's uniquely diverse populations, Hudson River HealthCare has expanded to include thirteen health center sites and mobile healthcare services delivering comprehensive primary, preventive and behavioral healthcare throughout a nine county region to over 42,000 people through well over 183,000 encounters.

Overall Goals for the Experience

1. Learn how health care is provided by Hudson River Health Care
2. Participate in clinical care
3. Participate in community health outreach
4. Return with photographs, summary highlights, and suggestions for future students

Externship Details

Length and Dates: The externship will be 4-6 weeks (June, July or August). Dates are negotiated with Ms. Allison Dubois, Administrator at HRHC. Only one student can be accommodated per summer.

Housing/Transportation: Housing is available for a reasonable fee. A personal vehicle is needed to travel to various sites.

Funding: Funding will be provided to cover transportation, housing and cost of living expenses ($2,000 for 4 weeks; $2,400 for 6 weeks). Additional funding up to $400 is available through the Michele Tracy Health Initiative.

Arranging the Details of the Experience: There are a variety of community outreach and patient care experiences available during this externship. The experience can be tailored to the interests outlined in your application and will be worked out directly with Ms. Allison Dubois.

Application and Selection Process: Applications are due March 1, 2012. Applications will be reviewed and selection will be made by the Peekskill Externship Committee soon after.

Report Requirements: A final report describing your experience should be submitted prior to the beginning of the Fall semester. This report will be shared with the Tracy family and will be available on the DFM website for others to read.

How to Apply: Complete our on-line application.

Questions? If you have any questions, please contact us at: omse.coordinator@fammed.wisc.edu or (608) 263-1334.