About MEDiC
MEDiC is a student-run program of the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, comprised of seven free health clinics throughout Madison, operating 22 clinic sessions monthly.
MEDiC offers one of very few opportunities students have to work interprofessionally, integrating medical, pharmacy and nursing (both RN and NP) students, as well as students from the Doctor of Physical Therapy and the Physician Assistant programs.
Student volunteers have the opportunity to put their knowledge and skills into practice, faculty have a unique and rewarding teaching experience, and individuals in need receive health care services.
The first MEDiC clinic, at Grace Men's Shelter, opened in 1991. Since then, the program has continued to grow due to the hard work and dedication of students, physician volunteers, administrative support, and community partners.
In January of 2010 MEDiC officially became a recognized program of the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health.
Fulfilling the Wisconsin Idea
More than 100 years ago the concept of "The Wisconsin Idea" came into being, a phrase coined to express our collective values and UW-Madison's unique commitment to collaborate with the people of Wisconsin, sharing knowledge and resources in order to improve lives everywhere.
Physicians and medical students work respectfully together with community partners to bring the Wisconsin Idea to life and by influence people's lives beyond the classroom.
Interdisciplinary Health Care in Action
The spirit of the integrated School of Medicine and Public Health is reflected in MEDiC's interdisciplinary work. Students from the Physician Assistant, Physical Therapy, Pharmacy, Nursing, and MD programs are represented on the Council and volunteer in the clinics.
During MEDiC's clinics, students form interdisciplinary teams, encouraging the exchange of information and the appreciation of students' varied skill sets. MEDiC provides one of the only cross-discipline learning opportunities for students early in their education, laying a foundation they will continue throughout their careers.
UW School of Medicine and Public Health
First- and second-year students in the MD Program volunteer at clinics and put their knowledge and skills into practice by providing care to underserved populations. Second-year medical students serve on the MEDiC Council by coordinating clinics, drugs and resources, as well as providing community resources, data collection and logistical support for the program.
Third- and fourth-year medical student volunteers often return to clinic in both a teaching and learning capacity.
Physician Assistant Program
Physician assistant students bring a unique set of skills to the MEDiC Clinics when they volunteer, including advanced clinical training. Physician assistant students also help find sponsors for MEDiC's annual Turkey Bowl Fundraiser.
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Lisa Steinkamp, PT, MS, MBA, Physical Therapy Program director, established MEDiC's physical therapy clinics and created the relationship between MEDiC and physical therapy students. Physical therapy operates monthly at South Side and the Salvation Army, and physical therapy students volunteer at all MEDiC Clinics.
School of Pharmacy
At clinics, School of Pharmacy students are able to work alongside students from other disciplines as equals to achieve a common goal, providing patient care to those who otherwise might go without. Using their pharmaceutical expertise, pharmacy students are often called on to provide patient education as well as to suggest cost-effective therapeutic options.
Pharmacy students in the MEDiC Council serve as the medication and supply coordinators, and are responsible for all clinic formularies.
School of Nursing
Paired with medical, pharmacy, and physical therapy students, RN and NP students in the School of Nursing see patients for initial consults and work in a multidisciplinary team of residents, physicians and other students to determine the health issues, plan of care and resources available for patients.