Idaho State University-Meridian honored with Community Health Award

Academic Dean Bessie Katsilometes accepted the award Sept. 15 during the IMGMA's annual conference in Boise.

ISU-Meridian was honored for its wide variety of health professions programs offered in the Treasure Valley, clinics, and community health screenings that provide care for underserved populations, according to IMGMA spokeswoman Brett La Peter.

This fall marks the second year ISU-Meridian has partnered with Ada County, Central District Health and the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare to provide free flu shots, hepatitis vaccinations, basic physical examinations, hearing and depression screenings, and dental evaluations for indigent and uninsured citizens. The screenings are conducted by ISU-Meridian faculty and student clinicians.

"The goal of our screening visits is to identify health-related problems early and to help individuals access appropriate care. Early detection of disease can help prevent future catastrophes," said Dr. Glenda Carr, a clinical assistant pharmacy professor. "In addition, these screenings are a valuable educational experience for all of our students at ISU-Meridian."

Past recipients of the Community Health Award include St. Luke's Medical Center, the Pocatello Free Clinic, the Saint Alphonsus Parish Health Ministry and Snake River Community Clinic.

The IMGMA is a professional association of administration and managers from a variety of medical practices and facilities throughout Idaho. The Idaho association is affiliated with the national Medical Group Management Association, which is dedicated to the management of medical practices.

ISU-Meridian offers more than 20 graduate and undergraduate programs in the health professions and health sciences, including pharmacy, accelerated nursing, counseling, speech language pathology and physician assistant studies.

The center also houses three clinics—Speech and Language, Counseling and the Delta Dental of Idaho Dental Residency Clinic at Idaho State University.

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