Due to shortages of PPE, readiness training and the uncertainties of the pandemic, many clinical training sites imposed restrictions which limited medical students’ interactions with patients. As a result, AACOM and AAMC instituted a nationwide pause in clinical education to provide time for schools and programs to adjust to the new challenges. UNE COM’s clinical training sites are dispersed across the Northeast in various locales, and as a result, the specific situations varied between sites. To address these challenges and provide students with the opportunity to complete their educational requirements, UNE COM adopted an alternative delivery model that provides guided learning experiences, and patient-care opportunities using online Blackboard courses, Zoom, and other interactive sessions. Each class has shown resilience, perseverance, empathy and adaptability (traits of a great physician)! I am proud of the way they are handling these unprecedented times.
As you may be aware, the UNE Commencement Ceremony, and the COM Graduation Ceremony, were affected by the COVID-19 situation. This is very disappointing for the Seniors, their families and the COM community. In discussions with the Class of 2020 members, we decided to celebrate their hard work and honor their achievement with a virtual event.
In this time of uncertainty, what is certain is the strength of our COMmunity. I have started a daily “Dean’s Shout Out” which highlights the many things that students, faculty and professional staff are doing during this pandemic. Whether swabbing for COVID-19; teaching a class or having department Zoom meetings; or building a “COVID-19” trap with a child while schooling from home; it is all very important to stay connected. Sharing these stories, screenshots, and selfies with the COMmunity reminds us that we are all in this together and our bonds to each other are strong.
I would love to add alumni shares to the Dean’s Shout Out and broaden the virtual comradery of our UNE COM osteopathic community and continue to bring everyone together.
Please share your Alumni Shout Out!!
Dear Alumni,
I hope this email finds you, and your families, well. I wanted to make certain I kept you informed of the decisions being made here at the University of New England, and specifically with COM, during this COVID-19 outbreak. The health and safety of our students, professional staff, faculty, and the broader community are of paramount concern for the University. We continue to monitor the developments of the COVID-19 outbreak and respond to the challenges it presents. It is important that all of the members of the UNE community, recognize the risks, which are still not fully understood.
The University has a COVID-19 Response Team, of which I am a member. We have met daily, if not more often, since March to ensure we are addressing the impact of this fluid situation. The University has a site dedicated to keep all up to date.
Letter from the Dean
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