FSU medical students tour Madison

On Friday, June 2, first year students from the Florida State University (FSU) College of Medicine visited Madison as part of the college's Rural Learning Experience. The goal of the trip was to increase student familiarity with rural health, with the hopes that they will eventually practice rural medicine. The college's mission is to educate physicians who will practice patient-centered healthcare, “especially through service to elder, rural, minority, and underserved populations.” The group started their day at the Senior Citizens Council of Madison County, where they enjoyed breakfast, socialized with local senior citizens, and heard several anecdotes from Dr. Robert Auston. Dr. Auston serves on the Council's Advisory Board and volunteers at the center. Madison County Memorial Hospital was the group's next destination, where Administrator Tammy Stevens accompanied them on a tour, including the Emergency Room's trauma room and the Stroke Program's telemedicine robot. The group also toured the Madison Health Department, including the Women's Center. Madison's First United Methodist Church provided lunch for the students, during which they heard from Dr. Daniel “Brett” Perkins. Dr. Perkins discussed several issues and myths relating to practicing medicine in rural communities. After lunch, the students toured downtown Madison, beginning with the Four Freedoms Park gazebo. Kaylee Denmark, of Perry, Fl., was one of the students in the group. Denmark attended North Florida Community College during high school before transferring to FSU, where she received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biological Science (and a minor in chemistry). She taught biology in Gadsden County before deciding to enroll in medical school. Her goal is to eventually practice medicine in either Perry or Madison.