Future Masters of Medicine
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Future Masters of Medicine-Exploring Careers in Healthcare
Future Masters of Medicine offers a tuition-free educational program for high school juniors and seniors in Westmoreland County who are interested in healthcare careers. With a projected shortage of doctors and nurses by 2030, Saint Vincent College and Independence Health System have joined forces to educate, inspire, and motivate students like you. If you’re considering a healthcare career but are unsure which path to take or whether it's the right choice for you, this program is a fantastic opportunity to explore your options and gain valuable insights.
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About the Program
The program will introduce you to various healthcare professions, expose you to surgical procedures with medical professionals, and provide you with practical training. If you have taken courses in anatomy, biology, physiology, or allied health and are eager to deepen your knowledge or explore future career paths in the health industry, our series could provide valuable guidance.
Six sessions with medical professionals instructing students on a variety of health-related topics will take place on Saint Vincent College’s Campus in the 2024-25 academic year. The Liberatore Human Anatomy Lab at Saint Vincent College, an expansive, state-of-the-art facility with six surgical stations for anatomical research, will host several medical demonstrations with physicians.
Program Perks and Exciting Advantages
- Network with medical professionals and like-minded peers
- Explore and validate your interest in the healthcare industry
- Learn from experts in the field using state-of-the-art equipment
- Earn scholarships to Saint Vincent College*
- Receive a custom-embroidered scrub top and a certificate of completion
2024-25 Future Masters of Medicine Schedule:
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An Inside Look at Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tears
October 16, 2024, 6:30 p.m.
Gregory Bisignani, MD, Orthopedic Surgeon
Often seen reported in the media, Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tears (ACLs) are one of the most common injuries in athletes, from the scholastic level to the pros. Dr. Bisignani will provide an overview of the ACL, including its function, how tears are diagnosed, and the latest treatment options available for such injuries. He will also demonstrate ACL surgical reconstruction on a cadaver, and students will have the opportunity to examine, handle, and use some of the equipment involved in the procedure. Additionally, Dr. Bisignani will describe the daily responsibilities of an orthopedic surgeon and outline the training required to pursue this career.
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Emergency Medicine: On the Front Line of Patient Care
November 13, 2024, 6:30 p.m.
Heather Walker MD, Emergency Medical Physician
Dr. Walker will explain the training, daily expectations, and duties of an Emergency Department physician, and will also share some interesting encounters she has experienced in the ED. Her discussion will cover common patient situations and diagnoses, such as cardiac arrest, as well as procedures performed in the ED. Her session will feature a demonstration of suturing techniques, followed by hands-on practice where students will work directly with instructors to try their suturing skills on fruit. This promises to be a unique learning experience.
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Advancing the Frontiers of Medicine: Robotics in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Lung Cancer
January 22, 2025, 6:30 p.m.
Michael Szwerc MD, Thoratic Surgeon
With Westmoreland County surpassing both the state and national incidence rates for lung cancer, Dr. Szwerc will focus his lecture on the growing use of robotic surgery and its benefits for detecting and treating lung cancer. He will also discuss the training and daily routine of a thoracic surgeon. Additionally, Dr. Szwerc will conduct cadaveric surgical demonstrations, allowing students to observe and use the tools employed in lung cancer surgery. Students will also have the opportunity to test drive surgical robots and experience firsthand how to use and manipulate this technology.
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Traversing Fields in HealthCare
February 19, 2025, 6:30 p.m.
Various Healthcare Professionals
In this unique session, students will explore a range of healthcare fields and specialties. They will rotate through various stations where they can interact with healthcare professionals, who will share insights about their training, education, and a typical day in their specific discipline. The spectrum of professionals includes nurses, nurse anesthetists, physicians, physician assistants, and physical and occupational therapists, among others. Students will participate in practical demonstrations, including monitoring blood pressure, measuring peripheral pulses, conducting physical exams, and intubating.
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Aortic Aneurysms: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
March 19, 2025, 6:30 p.m.
Elizabeth Detschelt, MD, Vascular Surgeon
Vascular Surgeon Elizabeth Detschelt will discuss the diagnosis and treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs)—enlarged areas in the lower part of the body’s main artery that can cause life-threatening bleeding if they rupture. In her lecture, Dr. Detschelt will provide an overview of the role of a vascular surgeon, the training required to enter the field, and a typical day in both the operating room and her office. She will cover the prevalence, significance, and treatment options for AAAs and conduct an interactive surgical demonstration. Students will also have the opportunity to examine AAA prosthetic grafts used in surgery.
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What You Need to Know About Knee Arthritis
April 9, 2025, 6:30 p.m.
Greg Bisignani, MD, Orthopedic Surgeon
Dr. Bisignani will address knee arthritis, covering its clinical definition, presentation, prevalence, and treatment options, both non-operative and surgical. Students will observe Dr. Bisignani perform a total knee arthroplasty surgical procedure as well as interact with orthopedic joint replacement specialists. They will examine joint replacement implants and related surgical equipment. Additionally, a surgical simulator will be available for students to practice and experience total knee replacement surgery.
Engaging Parent Sessions
While students are engaged in their educational sessions, Saint Vincent College invites parents of attendees to explore the majors and resources at SVC related to healthcare professions. You’ll also have the chance to hear from students and alumni about their experiences and career paths. All sessions begin at 6:30 p.m.
Scholarship Incentive
Students who attend Future Masters of Medicine sessions and later enroll at Saint Vincent College will be awarded scholarships based on their attendance:
- Attend 1-2 sessions and receive a $500 scholarship if you enroll at SVC
- Attend 3-4 sessions and receive a $1,000 scholarship if you enroll at SVC
- Attend 5-6 sessions and receive a $1500 scholarship if you enroll at SVC