June 2, 2008

Nova Naples' PA students have recently been involved in both meeting the needs of healthcare in the community and in exposing high school students to the profession.

Nova Southeastern University sponsored a statewide health fair called the REACH Fair, in which the Naples students participated. Students and faculty members of the College of Arts and Sciences including the physician assistant program were involved. The students saw more than 1000 patients from the medically underserved Bell Glade/Clewiston area. This was a rewarding opportunity where first and second year students were given hands on experience with patients.

The class of 2009 also participated in a local health fair sponsored by the Seventh Day Adventist church of Ft. Myers. There, the students provided blood pressure readings and education on diabetes, hypertension, and other healthcare related issues. The students were received by the community with gratitude and thanksgiving for their services.

In addition to the local health fair, the director of external affairs Walda Lora of the Sean P. Grimes Student Society also coordinated participation in several career fairs at nearby high schools. Members of the 2009 class got involved by attending the career fairs and talking to potential health care students. The main focus was to educate the high school students about their future healthcare options and the benefits and rewards of the physician assistant career.

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