Becoming A Patient-Centered Community Analysis

I have been involved in many health related experiences outside of the clinical setting and within my own community. Living in an area of New Orleans recovering post-Katrina gave me the opportunity to build relationships with families severely impacted by the storm and realize socioeconomic factors affecting these families which pre-dated the storm. These socioeconomic and environmental conditions continue to pose a threat to public health and cause families to suffer disproportionately from health-related conditions.

Unfortunately, many of these disadvantaged families fail to consult with a physician to the detriment of their own health. The reasons either stem from a lack of trust in physicians, or a consequence of therapeutic options which often clash with their lifestyles. Failure to deliver quality care to lower socioeconomic areas is a result of these factors.
Therefore, in my pursuit to practice medicine in underserved communities I recognize the value of building a trusting patient-physician relationship and its importance in achieving positive health outcomes. These qualities and experiences prepare me to become the culturally-competent, patient-centered physician I desire to