(PO-125) Global Predoctoral Clerkships, Community Service and Cultural Competence Training

Author: Chris S. Ivanoff, D.D.S. – Professor and Associate Dean for Research and Community Dentistry Education, Lincoln Memorial University College of Dental Medicine
Author: Timothy L. Hottel, D.D.S. , M.S. , M.B.A. , D.B.A. – Professor and Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Student Services, Lincoln Memorial University College of Dental Medicine
Author: Denise Terese-Koch, D.D.S. , M.B.A. – Professor and Dean, Lincoln Memorial University College of Dental Medicine
Submitter: Chris S. Ivanoff, D.D.S. – Professor and Associate Dean for Research and Community Dentistry Education, Lincoln Memorial University C

Problem: Can integrating global dentistry into cultural competency training encourage students to treat underserved communities beyond graduation?



Methods: A global network of dental schools (GOHI) opened their community service programs to each other’s students for cross-national clerkships during senior year; enhancing cultural competence, global citizenship, and community service. Objectives are achieved through education, patient care, and service to underserved populations in community clinics. The month-long service-learning program allows students to use clinical skills, while fostering civic responsibility in partnership with the community. Unlike traditional outreach, the program utilizes each school's community service programs for reciprocal clerkships without additional operational cost. Students assume all travel expenses.



Results: The program is based in evidence. In previous cross-national surveys, dental students indicated overwhelmingly they value international exchanges which, increase students’ knowledge and self-awareness related to cultural competence. KEPI assessments, before and after exchanges, suggest enhanced student preparedness and interpersonal/communication skills to manage diverse patient populations and function successfully in multicultural work environments. Exposure to social, environmental, and cultural influences affecting health and disease increases understanding of cultural attitudes towards oral health and doctor-patient relationships. Graduating community-oriented, culturally competent dentists may improve patient-provider communication and access to care among disparate groups domestically and abroad. By facilitating research, host countries can implement science to scale-up novel health services, effectively achieve health goals, reduce healthcare disparities, and encourage students to treat underserved communities after graduation. Cross-national clerkships teach students about philanthropy and serving others despite diversity. Exchanging knowledge and skills with partner institutions supports their nation’s long-term ability to provide for the population.



Conclusion: Exchanges are integrated into the curriculum. The GOHI program is in its 8th year of operation, involves 9 nations, resulted in 32 student and 21 faculty exchanges, 21 peer-reviewed publications, and 11 professional presentations from 2013 to 2021.