LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — A group of future doctors is beginning hands-on clinical training in Lima through a new partnership between The Ohio State University College of Medicine and Mercy Health - St. Rita’s Medical Center.
For the first time, medical students on the Ohio State University’s Community Medicine track will complete their clinical training in Lima. A ceremony was held Thursday for a dozen third-year medical students as they transition from classroom instruction to practical learning alongside the medical staff at St. Rita’s during the final two years of their medical education.
“I think it's an incredible opportunity for bi directional learning, right? And there's great care of patients here in Lima and for our students to learn with a medical education supported at Ohio State. I think this is going to be a really win win scenario, and super excited for these students,” said Dr. Amy Moore.
Among the students beginning training is Lima native Elyjah Roa, who said returning home for his clinical experience is meaningful.
“It's honestly surreal. Growing up here, and I knew I wanted to join the community medicine track my sophomore year of undergrad, and to be able to come back here four to five years later, and fulfill that goal. It’s pretty special doing work in a small community. It's different than in a big city. You know the physicians here, they really see everything. You really have to be prepared to treat everything that you come across,” said Roa.
Officials said the next group of students for the Community Medicine track is currently enrolling and is expected to begin training in Lima next year.
