Biology 284: Peruvian Medical Experience Interim 2009

Location: Peru
Professors:
Ted Johnnson, Ph.D., Professor of Biology (johnsont@stolaf.edu)
Doug Tate, M.D. (Dytbear@aol.com)
Major Credit: Biology
Prerequisites: Biology 125 and 291
Cost: $4100
Enrollment: 14

Course Description

This course is a study/service course that provides students interested in health care with an immersion in the health care system of Peru. In addition, the course will allow reflection on the American health care system and global health care issues. The Interim course will build on a 0.25 credit fall semester course, Topics in Biology: Medical Care in Peru.

The first week will be spent on campus exploring current health care issues as a means of understanding global health care systems and health care delivery. Students will study disease in a global as well as a societal context while emphasizing their biological origins, modes of health care delivery, and the impact of disease on human population.

The three weeks in Peru will provide the opportunity to participate directly in health care both medical care and dental care. Students will assess patients' needs and record observations of pediatric patients at the Willoq community and several orphanages. Students will work with dentists and physicians. Students will also observe patients as well as the medical staff at the regional hospital in Cusco. The program includes excursions to Machu Picchu , Ollantaytambo, Lake Titacaca , and to the Willoq community, Peru 's living past with indigenous people who trace their origins back to the last Inca rulers.

Students will be graded based on an exam at the end of the first week, personal and field journals, course preparation and participation, and feedback from Peruvian personnel.

Course Objectives

1. Provide a service-learning opportunity for students interested in a career in medicine.
2. Provide an academic base for a diverse and challenging cultural experience in Peru.
3. Explore Peru 's living past by visiting sites in Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Lake Titicaca and the Willoq Community.
4. Observe Peruvian medical practices and medical systems.
5. Participate in the Peruvian culture living the principles of the Rich Statement (Respect, Integrity, Celebration and Honesty).