Today@Sam Article
SHSU-COM Honors Piney Woods Preceptors
Nov. 27, 2024
SHSU Media Contact: Emily Binetti
By Brittany Foreman
On Monday, November 18, Sam Houston State University College of Osteopathic Medicine (SHSU-COM) hosted its Fall Preceptor Appreciation Dinner at the Fredonia Hotel and Convention Center in Nacogdoches. This event celebrated the contributions of SHSU-COM preceptors in the Piney Woods region, who play an essential role in training and mentoring Bearkat student doctors.
"Our preceptors provide invaluable experience and guidance during our students' third and fourth years of osteopathic medical education, helping shape the next generation of skilled physicians. It is a pleasure to gather everyone and recognize their dedication to both our students and their communities," said Mavis Yarbrough, regional clinical coordinator for the Piney Woods region.
The evening welcomed 80 attendees, including representatives from various healthcare providers and hospitals in the region, along with SHSU-COM student doctors, faculty and staff, to recognize the significant impact these preceptors have on the education and professional growth of the college's student doctors. This was the second preceptor appreciation dinner hosted by SHSU-COM in the Piney Woods region, establishing a tradition of honoring those who dedicate their time and expertise to support the college's mission of increasing primary care access and training culturally aware, compassionate physicians committed to serving rural communities in Texas.
Preceptors are vital to the hands-on medical training of SHSU-COM students, providing real-world experience that complements classroom learning. Their mentorship in clinical settings helps student doctors develop essential skills in patient care, communication and diagnostics. The event serves as a special opportunity to recognize their contributions to both the students and the broader healthcare community.
"The mentorship our preceptors provide not only shapes our students' clinical skills, but also instills a commitment to compassionate, community-focused practices," said Thomas Mohr, DO, dean of SHSU-COM. "Events like these give back to the professionals who dedicate so much to healthcare and education."
This year, 37 SHSU-COM student doctors are in rotations through partnerships with clinical sites across the Piney Woods region.
"I have been impressed with the preceptors of this region for the way they pour into us as we prepare for the next steps in our career. They celebrate our successes and inspire us to achieve greater goals for ourselves," said Luis Banuelos, a fourth-year medical student. "Collectively, my preceptors have given me tremendous hands-on experiences that have helped me stand out in residency interviews. Their support has made me a better medical student, and they've allowed me to find my way into great residency opportunities in a competitive specialty."
The evening was a meaningful reminder of the partnership between SHSU-COM and the valued preceptors in the Piney Woods region. Together, they continue to build a healthcare dedicated to training compassionate, skilled physicians for the great state of Texas.
SHSU-COM welcomes other medical professionals in the region to consider becoming a preceptor. By joining the preceptor network, local healthcare providers can make a direct impact on the future of healthcare, supporting the development of tomorrow's physicians. For more information about becoming a preceptor, please contact Mavis Yarbrough by phone: 936-438-2683, or email: mty010@shsu.edu.
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