Rural Scholars Presentation

On Thursday, November 3, from 4-5:30pm, the 2022 Rural Scholars from the University of Massachusetts will give a presentation at the West Tisbury Library. This year’s research project is titled, “Assessment of capacity to deliver integrated, health and social services at home to home-bound MV residents who are disabled or older adults.” Come learn about their findings and recommendations. This presentation is free and open to the public.

The “Rural Scholars” is a program sponsored by the Dukes County Health Council (DCHC).   The Rural Scholars are medical students from UMass, and they come to the Vineyard each fall.     While they are on-island, they conduct a research program that the DCHC has deemed needs further attention and would be of great beneficial use island-wide. Typically, once their research and clerkship is concluded, the Rural Scholars makes an on-island, free and open to the public,  community presentation showcasing their findings and recommendations.

Many of the past Rural Scholars’ research, collaboration, and presentations have ultimately produced many protocols that are now in place. Over the years, students have worked on projects related to teen health, elder health, food insecurity, housing, tick borne illness, mental health, women’s reproductive health services, and advanced care planning.