What is the community project?
The project is always evolving. It is designed to take much longer than four weeks to complete, so each student plays a different role. Some students spend their four weeks on a review of literature related to the project, some may interview key informants, some may create informational materials or curriculum—it all depends on the current project and what has been done so far. This structure allows each block to build on the previous one.
Some of the projects that have been completed by students in the Northeast Oregon CRH in the past include:
- Improving the Union County Warming Station
- Chronic pain management and depression tracking
- Medication-assisted treatment workflows
- Lactation support and baby bag support for new families
- Pediatric immunization education
- Narcan training
- Pediatric oral health interventions
What happened in 2025?
Right now, the project has been focused on simulation using NEOAHEC’s two high-fidelity manikins. The goal is to build upon an existing simulation to add interprofessional elements and to ensure that it pertains to rural situations. Learners have been focused on strengthening the Taylor Goldberg Pediatric Trauma Simulation, which has been used by OHSU.
“The pediatric trauma simulation is an opportunity for students to practice communication, teamwork, and rapid assessment skills that directly impact patient outcomes in rural healthcare settings,” explained Danielle Patton, NEOAHEC’s site coordinator.
Once this project is completed, students will begin to adapt additional scenarios, including a simulation surrounding pediatric autism this winter. Through this work, interprofessional learners are not only building their own skills but also contributing directly to the health of our communities by better preparing them to practice team-based care. This effort keeps our collaborative long-term vision of expanded simulation for rural providers in view.