A u g u s t
2 0 1 4
76
The Rebirth of JAMSA-SCOPH Martin Baxer Jamaica Medical Students Association - Standing Committee on Public Health (JAMSA-SCOPH) started in 2014 by delivering health orientated workshops and outreach programs to the public of Kingston. We worked along with Dr. Havanlee Henry, an orthopedic resident from Yale University funded by The Clinton Foundation, to provide medical examination and screening tests on March 29th 2014, at a mobile clinic in Downtown Kingston. SCOPH’s participation in the ‘Food For The Poor Health Fair’ at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Kingston on April 12th 2014, saw the team conducting free depression screening and advising atrisk persons to seek further medical assistance. Volunteering at the health fair brought to mind the gargantuan task the health sector has in treating each individual equally; explained final year medical student and volunteer Jamila James: ”The lack of resources tremendously impacts the level of care afforded to citizens. However, efforts like those made by SCOPH, is what gives a ray of hope”.
www.ifmsa.org
NMO: JAMSA-Jamaica University of the West Indies, Jamaica mbaxt3r@gmail.com
2014 has seen our membership grow, with a new president and support staff leading a rebirth of SCOPH, positioning our volunteer-lead organization to make even greater strides in the next academic year. “Our general mission is to provide health information and services to the public, particularly those from lower socio-economic backgrounds” said SCOPH President, Kizanne James. From our ‘Marijuana Induced Psychosis’ mental health campaign to our ‘Mind Matters Program’ promoting good mental health for healthcare professionals, our work has been well received. Our main goal for this upcoming academic year is to start a SCOPH Scholarship for students in need of financial assistance. We see health holistically and whole people make a happier and healthier society.