The More in Common Alliance program is working to strengthen both healthcare education and community health. This According to Dr. Panda, the Regional Dean of the Morehouse School of Medicine–CommonSpirit Health partnership here in Chattanooga.
Dr. Panda says the desire to improve community health is achievable by creating pathways for students from underrepresented, rural, and economically disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue careers in medicine and allied health fields.
She emphasizes the mission is to focus on “providing education and clinical care that is focused on health care, which is more right from preventive care to management of health, rather than just what I like to contrast it with sick care.”
The alliance partners with local schools, colleges, healthcare providers, and community organizations to expose students to healthcare careers, provide mentorship opportunities, and address workforce shortages across the region.
Dr. Panda also highlights Morehouse School of Medicine’s commitment to health equity, stating that its mission is “leading the creation and advancement of health equity to achieve health justice,” which she described as ensuring that every person receives the care they need, when they need it, and in a way that meets their individual circumstances.
Looking ahead, she calls for collaboration among Chattanooga’s healthcare institutions, noting that the goal is not competition but working together “while lifting our community and future health care workforce to achieve their dreams.”
Comments