Southern medical journal
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Southern medical journal · Mar 2024
Observational StudyImpact of Faculty Mentorship in the Orthopedic Surgery Interest Group at a New Medical School: A Blueprint for Future Initiatives.
Orthopedic surgery is a highly competitive field. The residency applicant pool is expected to grow with the increasing number of new medical schools in the United States, posing significant challenges for applicants. This study explored the impact of an engaged faculty mentor in an orthopedic surgery interest group (OSIG) at a new medical school and the impact it has on students. The study aimed to uncover the most valuable features of an OSIG at a new medical school to create a blueprint for other student-leaders and/or faculty in future initiatives. ⋯ Mentorship was identified as the most crucial activity for career development, followed by clinical exposure and research. The study provides valuable insights for new medical schools in establishing and optimizing OSIGs and potentially other interest groups, particularly in competitive specialties.
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Southern medical journal · Mar 2024
Exercise, Sleep Quality, and Physical Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Sufficient exercise and high-quality sleep are important for good health, and they may be particularly crucial during the coronavirus pandemic. Sleeping difficulties and insufficient exercise are prevalent in the United States, however, and data indicate little to no change-or even worsening-of these health behaviors before the pandemic. This study explores how exercise quantity coincides with sleep quality in the United States during the pandemic and how both ultimately relate to physical health. ⋯ These findings support the literature that increases in exercise frequency and improved sleep quality are linked and are also associated with better physical health outcomes, even during a global crisis.
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Without rural hospitals, many patients may not have access to essential services, or even any health care. Rural hospitals provide a community hub for local access to primary care and emergency services, as well as a bridge to specialized care outside the community. ⋯ Born out of grassroots efforts in the rural US South, this model alliance, the Arkansas Rural Health Partnership, with the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences supporting as an academic medical center participant, offers resources and programs intended to help rural hospitals and healthcare providers survive and even thrive in the challenging landscape that is forcing many other rural hospitals to close. The Arkansas Rural Health Partnership model is relevant for rural states that are seeking to develop or reenvision rural hospital alliances with academic medical centers to the benefit of the hospitals and the health of their communities and state.