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medical equipment that might have saved his life sat idle and unused because no one
knew how to use it.
“Sometimes what people in developing nations need is not free medications and supplies.
More often what they need in Ghana and places like it, is knowledge,” she says.
Each of the other young women-- Ellen Abellana, Irmanie Eliacin, Leslie Haney and
Kimberly Thorton—are dedicated to their future helping people.
Although only eight students began the program this summer, eventually the Fort Pierce
regional campus will host up to 20 third-year medical students and 20 fourth-year students.
At full capacity, FSU also expects to have 150-200 Treasure Coast physicians on faculty.
“It’s definitely a win-win experience for both the students and the physicians,” says Dr.
Randall Bertolette, dean of the Fort Pierce regional campus, who practiced pediatrics in
Vero Beach for 28 years before becoming dean. “There’s never been a medical school presence
in the area, and for physicians who want to teach, it’s a great opportunity. It keeps
them on their toes. Plus, students get real-life experience of practicing medicine in the
community on a daily basis.”
This is an artist’s rendering of the new
building on the campus of IRCC that
will house FSU College of Medicine’s
Fort Pierce Regional Campus.
EDUCATION
TREASURE COAST MEDICAL REPORT
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