LEWISBURG, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine has received recognition on the federal level for its service efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for its deployment of mobile testing units and no-cost medical transportation, WVSOM has been commended for its success in providing assistance to rural residents through its utilization of CDC-issued health disparities grants.
This effort was one of three programs throughout the country recognized recently by the CDC in report indicating ways to projects improved healthcare in underserved rural areas. The grant award was one of 108, totaling at $2.25 billion.
“Being recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for the work that WVSOM’s Center for Rural and Community Health (CRCH) led in southern West Virginia is an honor. It’s a testament to the strength of our partnership and the important work that can be accomplished when we prioritize the values of our community within our research and service projects,” said Center for Rural and Community Health Executive Director, Brian Hendricks, Ph.D. “WVSOM and its CRCH are building a reputation for innovative community engagement strategies to combat the challenges in public health West Virginians and their families face today.”
West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine President, James W. Nemitz, Ph.D., expressed pride at the efforts of WVSOM CRCH.
“I am proud of the accomplishments of the WVSOM CRCH. The skills and expertise of the staff, in partnership with other organizations, demonstrates what can be accomplished when people work together,” said Nemitz. “This collaborative model has been effective in addressing the health care challenges facing our communities, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the opioid epidemic and health disparities.”
WVSOM CRCH Program Coordinator, Misty Beiler noted the benefits of the grant funds, including affiliations which offer support in service efforts for the community.
“Thanks to this grant, we’ve established sustainable partnerships that address our local health department’s capacity for threat-preparedness, medical transportation needs of residents and the overall health of our community,” she said.
