Kansas Health Science Center

06/14/2024

Today is World Blood Donor Day, an annual observance for raising awareness of the need for a safe and stable blood supply as well as celebrating blood donors for their lifesaving contributions. According to the American Red Cross, U.S. blood donors has hit an all-time low with only three out of 100 people giving blood. As a result, there is a 20,000-donation shortfall.

Earlier this year, KHSC-Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine hosted a blood drive in commemoration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day that aligned with National Day of Service. Collaborating with the American Red Cross Kansas, 38 student doctors, staff and faculty addressed the urgent need for blood while also honoring Dr. King’s legacy of united action to effect positive change.

To find a blood donation site near you visit https://www.redcross.org/give-blood.html.

In commemoration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the Kansas Health Science Center Cares Committee organized a blood drive at KansasCOM aligned with the National Day of Service. The holiday encourages Americans to volunteer and uplift their communities, and our blood drive highlighted the dedication o...

06/06/2024

KHSC-Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine and Wichita State University have teamed up to tackle Kansas’ physician shortage with a new 3+4 program! Select WSU students can now fast-track their medical careers, completing both their bachelor’s and medical degrees in just seven years. This innovative partnership not only expedites education but also reduces student debt.

05/28/2024

Our latest blog post explains why KHSC-Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine's student doctors passionately commit their time and expertise to community service and how they chose to partner with League 42 for the National DO Day of Service.

Read more about their impact here:

The Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (KansasCOM), in partnership with League 42, hosted a health fair as part of the National DO Day of Service. This special day was not only a chance to support the Wichita community but also an educational opportunity for the 90 student doctors who volunteere...

05/27/2024

Land of the free, because of the brave.

As we observe Memorial Day, we reflect and show gratitude for those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

05/24/2024

Congratulations to Dr. Angela Carrick, associate dean of pre-clinical education at KHSC-Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine, for being an honoree in the Wichita Business Journal’s Excellence in Health Care issue in March.

Dr. Carrick shared this advice for someone considering a career in health care: “… actively engage with professionals in the field through shadowing and conversations. By immersing yourself in their experiences, you can gain valuable insights into the rewards, challenges, and lifestyle associated with the profession.”

Excellence in Health Care

05/20/2024

Discover the intersection of medical education and service to our nation in our latest blog post. See our diverse representation across the branches of the armed forces in the infographic below.

Read more: https://www.kansashsc.org/blog/military-scholarship-programs/

05/10/2024

Pediatric care takes center stage at the semiannual CME and networking event, Progress in Pediatrics conference, which was held in Overland Park, KS. With decision-makers from clinics, independent practices, and hospitals, this event is a pillar for advancing pediatric health care.

Dr. James Joseph and Dr. Iram Sirajuddin, esteemed faculty members at Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine, shared their insights at the conference. Alongside them were 10 aspiring student doctors, presenting innovative research posters.

Dr. Joseph's speech resonated deeply, highlighting the crucial need for pediatric preceptors. We're eager to collaborate with those interested in shaping the next generation of health care providers.

05/08/2024

The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee recently hosted their highly anticipated annual Cultural Fashion Show. With an impressive turnout, 30 student doctors proudly represented their diverse backgrounds by donning traditional attire from various countries around the world.

The runway was a kaleidoscope of colors, patterns, and styles, showcasing the cultural heritage of India, Pakistan, China, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Jamaica, Peru, Afghanistan, Cuba, Nepal, and Nigeria. Each ensemble told a unique story, reflecting the intricate histories, traditions, and artistic expressions of these nations.

05/06/2024

Campus will be closing at 3:00 p.m. today due to severe weather. Stay safe!

05/02/2024

At the Students Today, Alumni Tomorrow (STAT) Annual Celebration, held at the vibrant MarkArts venue on Sunday, our exceptional student doctors, esteemed faculty, and the broader campus community came together to forge traditions and commemorate the friendships we've built, the challenges we've conquered, and the victories that await us. STAT acknowledges each student as our future alumni, creating opportunities for engagement during and beyond their time at KHSC, developing a culture of lifelong connection and collaboration.

During this celebration, our student doctors had the chance to express their gratitude and admiration for the faculty members who have profoundly influenced their academic journey. The following individuals were honored with the inaugural student choice awards:

▪️ Dr. Chris Morrissey: Outstanding Clinical Faculty
▪️ Dr. Frank Fitzpatrick: Outstanding Pre-Clinical Faculty
▪️ Dr. Dan Witt: Outstanding OMM Trainer
▪️ Shannon Curran: Advocate of the Year

Congratulations to all the honorees!

04/22/2024

Congratulations to Professor Paul Misasi and his student team, comprising Alvin Nagi, Rachel Boots, Omar Ajlouni, Sharad Nair, Abigail Werhan (not pictured), and Ryan Ivey, on their recent publication in Cureus titled “The Effectiveness of Different Teaching Modalities for the Detection of Heart Murmurs in Undergraduate Medical Education: A Review.” This achievement underscores our commitment to meaningful research that assesses the impact of innovation on medical education and clinical care. Stay tuned for more groundbreaking work from our faculty and students.

04/19/2024

Witness the next generation of medical professionals as they immerse themselves in the intricacies of OMM, a pillar of osteopathic medicine. OMM stands for Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine. It's a hands-on approach to diagnosing, treating, and preventing illness or injury, primarily focusing on the musculoskeletal system. OMM techniques include stretching, gentle pressure, and resistance to improve range of motion, alleviate pain, and enhance the body's natural ability to heal itself.

Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs) are trained in OMM as part of their medical education, along with traditional medical training. They use OMM techniques as part of a holistic approach to patient care, aiming to address not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of illness or dysfunction.

04/17/2024

KHSC-Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine faculty and a select group of second-year medical students recently completed the American Heart Association's ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) instructor course, a critical step in their journey to becoming educators of life-saving skills.

ACLS, building upon the foundation of BLS (Basic Life Support), emphasizes continuous, high-quality CPR and fosters proficiency in team dynamics, communication, and intervention strategies for various medical emergencies including cardiac arrest, dysrhythmias, stroke, and acute coronary syndromes. As part of our commitment to preparing well-rounded medical professionals, ACLS certification is a prerequisite for all our medical students before graduation.

04/15/2024

What an incredible day at the Health Fair event with League 42! A heartfelt thank you to the 90 Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine student doctors who volunteered their time for the National DO Day of Service. Together, we provided essential health resources and heightened awareness about the social determinants of health.

Our students gained hands-on experience in everything from nutrition education to injury prevention, empowering community members to take control of their well-being. This event was about more than just health care; it was about building a resilient and informed community.

A special thanks to KWCH, KSN, KAKE, and ESPN for covering the event and helping spread the word about our mission to address health disparities.

Together, we're forging a path toward a healthier future!

04/12/2024

What an incredible honor bestowed upon Dr. Joseph, Dr. Durrett, and Dr. Gangadhar by the Wichita Business Journal! Their recognition as outstanding Health Care Educators and recipient of the Lifetime Achievement award highlights their exceptional contributions to the health care field. We are proud to see our esteemed colleagues celebrated for their dedication and impact. This recognition not only reflects their individual accomplishments but also underscores the importance of collaboration and innovation in advancing health care education and practice.

Let's applaud these remarkable individuals for their well-deserved accolades and their enduring commitment to excellence.

04/10/2024

Nearly 200 high school and college students, along with professionals across the community, attended the 2nd Annual Sports Medicine Symposium at KHSC-Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine. Research indicates that physicians tend to practice where they grow up, attend medical school, or complete residency. We're committed to cultivating a new generation of health care professionals who are dedicated to medically underserved Kansas communities.

Special thanks to our incredible guest speakers:
• Andrew Porter, DO
• Dan Cahill, MS
• Zach Werhan, PhD
• Dan Meers, KC Wolf
• Michael Hall, DO
• Nathan Krug, MD
• Cody Glick, DPT
• Brad Brunner, MD

The symposium hosted breakout sessions, offering hands-on experiences and cutting-edge knowledge:

💪 ACL Reconstruction: Exploring the latest techniques and advancements in the field.

🔍 Ultrasound in the Field: Unveiling the power of ultrasound technology for on-the-spot diagnosis.

🔬 Holoanatomy: Diving into the world of holographic anatomy for innovative learning experiences.

Together, we're building a brighter future for health care in Kansas!

04/08/2024

As the eclipse hit its peak at 1:48 p.m. in Wichita, KHSC-Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine faculty, staff, and students gathered on the rooftop nine stories above Wichita to share the experience.

LEFT: Our very own MacGyver, Dr. Dasa Gangadhar - an ophthalmic surgeon and assistant dean for clinical education - created a solar eclipse view box from a cereal container.

RIGHT: CFO Matt Ankenbrandt and other members of the KHSC team used solar eclipse glasses to observe today’s event. The historic Wichita City Hall (now the Wichita Sedgwick County Historical Museum) clock tower is seen in the background.

04/06/2024

Today we celebrate the day KHSC was founded with a mission to train effective and empathetic health care professionals for Kansas and beyond. We are here to do good, for good!

From scholarships to access to advanced technologies and ensuring student success to bridging health care gaps in underserved communities, your gift makes a lasting mark in the lives of student doctors and their future patients.

Join us today in celebrating our Founders Day of Giving by making a gift of any size at kansashsc.org/giving. Every donation builds a brighter, healthier future for Kansas.

Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of our students and the communities they will serve. Learn more and give at www.kansashsc.org/giving/give-now.

04/05/2024

Join us April 6th as we celebrate the day KHSC was founded with a mission to train effective and empathetic health care professionals for Kansas and beyond!

Kansas faces a dire physician shortage, with 92 of 105 counties, including Sedgwick County, classified as partially or wholly underserved.

We encourage our students to gain hands-on experience in underserved areas during clinical rotations and immersion programs. These experiences provide invaluable learning opportunities and cultivate an understanding of the unique health care challenges faced by underserved communities.

Your support on this Founders Day of Giving allows us to expand our impact in rural and underserved areas. Together we bridge the gap and build healthier, stronger communities across Kansas. Learn more and give at www.kansashsc.org/giving/give-now.

04/04/2024

Join us April 6th as we celebrate the day KHSC was founded with a mission to train effective and empathetic health care professionals for Kansas and beyond!

Healthy communities require more than just access to care. Through experiential learning and community service, student doctors gain insight into the diverse challenges their future patients may face. This perspective sheds light on the social determinants of health, such as lack of transportation or access to fresh foods, and informs patient education, support services, and medical interventions.

Together, we can develop physicians who lead with empathy and deliver better patient care and outcomes. Learn more and give at www.kansashsc.org/giving/give-now.

04/03/2024

Join us April 6th as we celebrate the day KHSC was founded with a mission to train effective and empathetic health care professionals for Kansas and beyond!

Debt directly informs where new physicians will choose to practice, and their specialty. By reducing financial barriers, scholarships make medical education accessible to students and fosters inclusivity and diversity. In Kansas, where the demand for primary care physicians is high, scholarships encourage a new generation of health care professionals dedicated to serving underserved communities.

Together, we invest in the next generation of health care leaders and make a difference that lasts a lifetime. Learn more and give at www.kansashsc.org/giving/give-now.

04/02/2024

Join us April 6th as we celebrate the day KHSC was founded with a mission to train effective and empathetic health care professionals for Kansas and beyond!

The future of health care requires innovation and an understanding of the transformative power of technology. We believe in leveraging cutting-edge medical technologies and integrating the latest advancements into our curriculum to ensure our graduates are well prepared for the rapidly evolving field of health care.

Together, we embrace innovation and propel health care forward! Learn more and give at www.kansashsc.org/giving/give-now.

04/01/2024

Founded on April 6, 2018, we are here to address the pressing need for more physicians in Kansas and beyond. And our journey is just beginning.

As we count down to Founders Day, we invite you to learn more about the ways YOU can shape the future of medicine. Your support matters as together we:

• Empower Future Physicians: Your contributions provide scholarships and resources nurturing the next generation of compassionate physicians and visionary leaders.

• Enhance Patient Care: With your help, we’re building a physician pipeline for Kansas, especially for rural and underserved areas, providing vital health care resources where they’re most needed.

• Enrich Excellence in Medical Education: Every gift, big or small, fuels transformative change, advancing cutting-edge medical technologies and fostering faculty development.

Join us on April 6th to celebrate our Founders Day by making a contribution. Together, we shape a healthier future. Learn more and give at www.kansashsc.org/giving/give-now.

03/30/2024

Today, on National Doctors Day, we express our gratitude to physicians, especially those at KHSC-Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine, who not only provide patient care but also mentor the next generation of medical professionals. Their commitment to teaching extends beyond textbooks, instilling passion, empathy, and excellence in their students. These doctors play a vital role in shaping the future of medicine. Pictured are some of the respected physician faculty members.

03/27/2024

Against the backdrop of political chambers and bustling corridors, KHSC-Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine's student doctors presented their research posters to a distinguished audience, including elected officials and their staff.

The highlight of the event was undoubtedly the recognition bestowed upon KansasCOM by Senator Chase Blasi, who praised the institution as a beacon of health care education. "This institution is a shining example of excellence in health care education," remarked Senator Blasi. He further emphasized the crucial mission of KansasCOM in extending health care services to rural areas, ensuring equitable access for all residents across the state.

Beyond the academic showcase, the students also had the opportunity to explore the statehouse, immersing themselves in Kansas' rich history. This experiential learning journey added depth to their understanding of governance and community engagement.

As our KansasCOM students continue to make their names known in the community, their endeavors serve as a testament to the institution's commitment to excellence and service. Through their contributions, they are not only advancing medical knowledge but also forging meaningful connections with key stakeholders, shaping a brighter future for health care in Kansas.

03/25/2024

We were honored to host Mayor Lily Wu, Wichita's trailblazing leader, at KHSC-Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine. Being the FIRST woman elected to a full term AND the FIRST Asian-American mayor of Wichita, her journey is truly inspiring!

Her emphasis on passion, entrepreneurial mindsets and networking deeply resonated as she rallied us toward a common goal: advancing Wichita together. Mayor Wu's vision of unity and collaboration serves as a guiding light for our community, inspiring us to come together, leverage our strengths, and work tirelessly toward a brighter, more inclusive future.

We are

03/22/2024

KHSC-Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine is proud to have three faculty members representing the Wichita Business Journal's 15th class of Health Care Heroes: Lifetime Achievement recipient Dasa Gangadhar, assistant dean for clinical education, and Health Care Educators Robin Durrett and James Joseph, clinical faculty.

The honorees are recognized as standouts for the work they do, their dedication to medicine and commitment to continuing education as health care professionals. Congratulations to the entire class for their impact on health care in our community!

The 2024 Health Care Heroes will be honored at a dinner April 2.

03/19/2024

In a recent immersive experience, second-year medical students explored pediatric health care through a dynamic simulation lab. With determination, they tackled simulation stations designed to challenge their clinical reasoning, diagnostic skills, and emergency response abilities.

Working in pairs, students navigated diverse pediatric cases within 15-minute intervals, demonstrating effective collaboration and critical thinking. After completing the simulations, students delivered oral case presentations, analyzing their clinical decisions and articulating findings with clarity.

Faculty debriefs provided valuable feedback, allowing students to reflect on their performance and refine their skills. This experience enhanced their teamwork and communication skills vital in pediatric care.

This simulation scenario not only prepared students for the challenges of pediatric medicine but also reinforced our institution's mission of producing competent and empathetic health care professionals dedicated to serving their communities.

03/13/2024

Last weekend, Kansas Health Science Center-Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine had the honor of sponsoring Health Care Champions Night at the Wichita Thunder game! Faculty, staff and student doctors gathered to recognize the unwavering dedication of health care professionals in our community. It was a night filled with gratitude for those who tirelessly serve others.

We're proud to be training the next generation of empathetic health care leaders dedicated to innovation and making health care accessible to all. Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating these Health Care Champions!

03/12/2024

We are thrilled to be selected as an honoree for the 2024 Wichita Business Journal Innovation Awards. Being recognized for our commitment to innovation in health care education is a testament to our dedication to pushing boundaries and shaping the future of medicine.

We're proud to be a part of the Wichita community and beyond, and this honor reinforces our mission to create forward-thinking, empathetic health care leaders who drive innovation and positively impact underserved communities. Congrats to all the other honorees—we're inspired by your dedication to innovation and look forward to continuing to make a difference together!