College of Medicine at Gulf Medical University, Ajman, organized a Health Risk Screening and Awareness Program in collaboration with the Thumbay University Hospital, Thumbay Dental Hospital, and Thumbay College of Management and AI in Healthcare at the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs, Ajman on September 26, 2023. It brought together a dedicated team of medical, dental, and public health program students and interns, supported by skilled medical professionals, including doctors and nurses. The participants included a diverse group of officers, administrative staff, and non-admin staff from the Directorate. Their active participation demonstrated a commitment to their health and well-being.
The primary objective of this program was to raise awareness about prevalent health issues and empower individuals with the knowledge and tools to maintain optimal health. By conducting comprehensive health screenings, we aimed to identify risk factors early, enabling participants to take proactive steps toward prevention and better health outcomes. Our dedicated medical team provided free health check-ups for all participants. The program featured different stations, each serving a vital role. Height, weight, and BMI estimation, blood pressure measurement, blood sugar (RBS) estimation, and a comprehensive oral examination were conducted at different stations. Participants had the opportunity to consult with a General Practitioner who provided personalized health advice and referred cases requiring further medical attention.
This program provided invaluable hands-on experience for our medical, dental, and public health program students and interns, allowing them to apply classroom knowledge, develop clinical and communication skills, and deepen their understanding of community health needs, all of which are essential for their professional growth and future contributions to healthcare. Engaging in such projects helps professionals connect with diverse populations, address health issues, and fulfill their social responsibility as healthcare providers.
Jeromy Mackay 2020M003 reflected that “as a medical student, volunteering for a healthcare screening campaign has been an enlightening experience that has reaffirmed my love for medicine and my commitment to serving others. Participating in this campaign has allowed me to acquire a unique perspective on the healthcare needs of various communities, has deepened my understanding of the importance of preventive care, and provided me with useful insight into the crucial role early detection plays in improving patient outcomes. Furthermore, volunteering in this campaign allowed me to further enhance my clinical skills, and the hands-on experience I gained was invaluable to me. I am grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact on the community and look forward to continuing to serve others throughout my medical career.”
“Community Engagement and Social Accountability is an integral part of GMU’s vision and mission, and I believe that the University should serve the immediate community in which it exists”, reflected Prof. Manda Venkatramana, Vice Chancellor Academics and Dean, College of Medicine, who is also the Chairman of the Community Engagement Committee of Gulf Medical University.