Nine KPSOM students discussed healthcare disparities and related topics with California legislators during the 2022 American College of Physicians (ACP) Sacramento Leadership Week, held March 7 through 11. As an official student chapter of ACP, KPSOM students were invited to take part in the virtual networking session via Zoom, which provided flexibility in scheduling appointments with lawmakers. The participating students were Ahmad Alach, Kushwant Dhaliwal, Olivia Goodman, Bennet Gosiker, Paula Hornstein, Hoejeong Kim, Kiran Magee, Mark Sanders, and Jacqueline Xu.
“As the faculty advisor for the student chapter [of ACP] at KPSOM, it was gratifying that nine students participated virtually in the ACP Sacramento Leadership Week,” said Dr. Thomas Tom, KPSOM Associate Professor of Clinical Science and Internal Medicine Specialty Director. “Our students experienced a meaningful learning opportunity on how the current political, social, and economic factors are shaping health care. Students met with legislatures to gain insight into statewide health policymaking. This invaluable experience will help prepare the next generation of physician leaders and health equity advocates.”
KPSOM student Mark Sanders expressed that he really enjoyed the experience, learned a great deal from his involvement, and relished networking with other attendings and residents. “[I’m] just getting off a call with an assembly member now … [it’s] very cool gaining insight into ways we can advocate for policy change as a physician,” said Sanders in between appointments.
ACP is the largest medical specialty organization and the second-largest physician group in the United States. The organization’s 161,000 members include internists, internal medicine subspecialists, medical students, residents, and fellows united by a commitment to excellence.
