‘Made for Medicine’ Initiative Begins this Fall
Columbus-based African American physicians come together to expose children of color to medical careers
The Columbus Medical Association announced today the launch of their newest initiative, Made for Medicine, a program designed to support local Black youth pursue a career in the medical field.
Dr. Laura Espy-Bell | Made for Medicine Founder and Lead Faculty
“The Made for Medicine program was created from a vision I had many years ago, to expose Black children to various careers in medicine and encourage them to pursue careers in this field,” said Made for Medicine Founder and Lead Faculty Dr. Laura Espy-Bell. “Understanding that there is a large disparity of Black physicians in the United States, this pipeline program was created to address this disparity, by creating a space for children of color to learn about medicine, have hands-on experiences, all the while being taught by physicians who mostly look like them.”
Made for Medicine follows participants from grades 6 – 12 during which students are provided with critical foundational knowledge, hands-on learning, job shadowing, internships, and much more. The goal of this program is for participants to leave with a solid preparation and commitment to pursue a future career in medicine.
Erica Womack, Ph.D, was brought on to be the Program Manager for Made for Medicine. Dr. Womack has an extensive background in education as a high school English teacher, college professor, STEM Equity consultant, and entrepreneur. “In Made for Medicine, we’re committed to removing barriers and creating affirming spaces for Black youth to realize their full potential in the field of medicine,” said Dr. Womack.
The first cohort of 6th and 7th grade students begin their six-week course on Saturday, Oct. 30. Students interested in joining Made for Medicine can apply online starting Sept. 20 at noon by visiting www.madeformedicine.org.
The Columbus Medical Association and Foundation has a long history of facilitating and supporting physician ideas into reality. “We are committed to this program for the long-term,” said Columbus Medical Association and Affiliates CEO Dr. Robert Falcone. “We anticipate it will impact the community as significantly as our other affiliate programs which have grown into organizations that are depended on by physicians and patients throughout Central Ohio.”