91�� | Caribbean Medical School

CEO Mr. Milo Pinckney Meeting With The Students

Donovan Murphy — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 20:45:39 +0000

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CIO Mr. Richard Levy demonstrating the applications of the Clinical Activity Rotation Log (C.A.R.L)

Donovan Murphy — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 20:39:10 +0000

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American Heart Association Blood Pressure Technique Training

Donovan Murphy — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 20:15:02 +0000

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91�� Students Mastering Clinical Skills

Donovan Murphy — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 20:00:25 +0000

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What makes a Doctor’s Doctor?

Milo Pinckney — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 16:32:46 +0000

Throughout my medical school and neurological surgery training, I often wondered what qualities in a physician that fellow medical professionals sought out in choosing a doctor? What makes a doctor’s doctor? I have been blessed in my career to have had the opportunity to train with inspirational physicians and mentors, many were doctor’s doctor. In my medical journey I have been privileged to study under the Chairman of the Department of Emergency Medicine at Cook County Hospital, Dr. Robert Simon, also the opportunity to be mentored by Dr. Howard Barrow, neurologist and professor at McMaster DeGroot School of Medicine, considered the grandfather of problem-based learning(PBL), to work in my undergraduate years at the Banting and Best Institute, where Charles Banting discovered insulin and to have been trained by Dr. Jules Hardy renown Pituitary Surgeon to name a few. Many of these physicians were indeed doctor’s doctors.
As a medical school professor, I have often pondered on what pearls of wisdom I can share with my medical students, as to what makes a doctor’s doctor. I read an article recently, written by Erik Hamre; titled “How Tom Brady Became the Best Quarterback in the NFL.” Not being a football aficionado, I learned that Tom Brady was not always destined for greatness. Hamre details that Brady was 199th draft pick in the year 2000 draft. He also reports that the draft report described Brady as “poor build, skinny, lacks great physical stature and strength, lacks mobility and ability to avoid the rush, lacks a really strong arm, can’t drive the ball downfield, does not throw a really tight spiral, system-type player who get exposed if forced to ad-lib and gets knocked down easily.” So much for that, “this year was his third super bowl since he turned 40 and he’s now considered the greatest quarterback of all-time.”

I couldn’t help but compare and see the analogy with physicians who become the best at their craft, becoming a doctor’s doctor. Having trained and taught at many top tier USA and Canadian medical schools, both allopathic and osteopathic, I have learned that many of the physicians who went on to become a “doctor’s doctor” did not graduate from ivy league schools, nor in the top ten percent of their class. Most did not have a privileged pedigree, come from wealth or score in the stratosphere on standardized exams such as MCAT or USMLE/COMLEX. Yet, they went on to become a trusted “doctor’s doctor.”
My response, the title of a lecture I deliver yearly is “it’s the doctor in you.” Seth Godin, American Author has stated, “our credential-obsessed society teaches high achievers to equate success with approval from an external authority. Unfortunately, this outlook undermines your ability to trust yourself.
It is a convenient place to hide from our own potential. Godin goes on to question, the fact that you have a degree doesn’t mean you have insight, experience, or concern. You’ve acquired a piece of paper, but that doesn’t mean you care.”
More significantly, are you willing to persevere and do you have compassion. “It’s the doctor in you,”
that will instill a desire, a drive to continue to learn, long after medical school is completed.
This brings to mind the adage, “What do you call the person who graduated last in your medical school class?” Doctor. Medical students and doctors early in their career do not need to be trapped in their past. As TIM Denning states. “The past in your default program.” And to beat the default program, you have to change.
Being a doctors’ doctor has been an enormous privilege and honor. Bearing witness to the relentless and pernicious stigma in the house of medicine and how that ravages the minds and souls of our brothers and sisters in medicine has been a driving force. Through my teaching and mentorship, I know that there are many young and early-career physicians taking up the reins and making a commitment to physician health.

Being a doctors’ doctor can be a worthwhile experience, however it can be a daunting encounter for some. Caring for doctors may for some manifest feelings of inferior professional competence and feel pressured, strained and insecure. There are some doctors who prefer and choose to avoid such encounters. Other qualities of a doctor’s doctor is the ability to listen and be a good communicator.

“Listen to your patient; he is telling you the diagnosis.” Sir William Osler
But what it does mean is that the patient will provide doctors with enough clues to make the diagnosis, sometimes even before we examine them. For years I have taught my medical students when exiting a patient’s room after taking a history, if you are left in a quandary as to what could be possibly wrong with the patient, you need to return to the patient’s bedside and explore the history further, as 80% of the diagnosis is discoverable in the history.
Dr. Lisa Sanders an internist and author stated:” in an interview on NPR about her book, “Every Patient Tells a Story,” she aptly points out that there are two conversations going on at once. One is with the person telling the doctor about their problem. The second is a simultaneous conversation going on in the doctor’s head when they are thinking, “what does it mean and what do I ask next?” This second conversation frequently fogs the patient’s message and leads to the doctor interrupting the patient.”
Over 30 years ago a landmark study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine (Nov. 1984) reported that on average, physicians interrupted their patients after only 18 seconds. It should be noted that not all interruptions are verbal, a knock on the door, beeper interruptions, and computer use all interfered with communication, and increased frequency of interruptions are associated with less favorable patient perceptions of the office visit.”
A more recent study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine (online, July 2, 2018) assessed 112 doctor-patient interactions between 2008 and 2015. This study reported that the clinician interrupted the patient after a medial of 11 seconds. The authors of this study concluded:
“The medical interview is a pillar of medicine. It allows patients and clinicians to build a relationship. Ideally, this process is inherently therapeutic, allowing the clinician to convey compassion, and be responsive to the needs of each patient. Eliciting and understanding the patient’s agenda enhances and facilitates patient-clinician communication.”
“The good physician treats the disease; the great physician treats the patient with the disease.”
Sir William Osler
Osler’s 19th-century admonitions have enduring relevance even today. Osler’s maxim has been proposed to reflect the realities of modern healthcare:
“Engage the patient; she is not only telling you the diagnosis but is integral to all aspects of her health and healthcare.”

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“The Comeback is Greater than the Setback”

Milo Pinckney — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 15:47:49 +0000

Dr. Don W. Penney MD.MSC.FACEP. Neurological Surgeon Provost/Dean Clinical Affairs, 91�� School of Medicine

Dr. Penny’s thoughts for students seeking paths to overcome the obstacles’ faced during their medical education

“The Comeback is Greater than the Setback”

People enjoy a comeback story because it gives them hope that one day they can rise above an obstacle in their own personal struggles. There is an overwhelming desire deep down that most people want to see redemption, a second chance. Comebacks are possible and they happen all the time. Life is full of setbacks, and many times it may seem impossible for you to emerge victoriously. At one time or another, all people will experience some form of adversity, hardship, or a tough experience. How do people deal with these types of events that change their lives? The death of a loved one, a harrowing combat event, a loss of a job, serious illness, terrorist attacks and other traumatic events: these are all examples of very challenging life experiences

One of the greatest comebacks of all time is the career of Muhammad Ali. After winning the gold medal in the 1960 Rome Olympic games for light heavyweight boxing, Ali went on to defeat Sonny Liston in February 1964. Ali after having an initial streak of success was then struck with multiple setbacks. In April 1967 he was found guilty of draft evasion and stripped of his title. However, in June 1971 four years after being convicted and sentenced to five years in prison and stripped of his heavyweight championship by the boxing commission, the Supreme Court decided that Ali was improperly drafted in their first place. This was not Ali’s only comeback, Ali lost his heavy weight championship fight to Joe Frazier in the “fight of the century” at Madison Square Garden in 1971. Once again, Ali overcame his setback and defeated Joe Frazier in January 1974. After that, Muhammad Ali went on to beat George Foreman in the “Rumble in the Jungle” and finally Joe Frazier once again in 1975 in the “Thrilla in Manilla.”

The message gleaned from this story, you can overcome the obstacles you face, and those created currently by the pandemic. Personal setbacks including financial, health, loss of loved ones, divorce and academic to name only a few. With respect to the effects of the pandemic on medical education, it has caused an unprecedented disruption in medical education and healthcare systems worldwide. The disease can cause life-threatening conditions and it presents challenges for medical education, as instructors must deliver lectures safely, while ensuring the integrity and continuity of the medical education process.

As Provost and Dean of Clinical Affairs at the American University of Integrative Sciences, I have witnessed similar disruptions in the delivery of medical education of our students. I have also communicated with many potential students interested in pursuing a medical education, yet reticent in making the commitment to apply. My personal discussions with these students have identified many students who have had setbacks academically, past failures forced withdrawals and financial struggles to name a few.

My message to those students who are hesitant, a comeback will always begin with change. 91�� is a medical school that will allow you the chance for a Comeback. A need to be willing to do things differently from what you have done in the past. Change will always happen when you choose to be committed, this will result in a change of your future. With proper personal mentoring, small class size and a successful track record, 91�� can turn it around and put you on the road to future success.

“I did the best I could at the time with what I knew”

The resilience of the human spirit speaks to the character of those who have been setback, it demonstrates their determination, creativity, and vigor. At a basic level it resorts to what you want to achieve. Many who have been successful have a strong belief in possibilities; Simon Sinek is one example who has stated:

“My goal is to live in a world where the vast majority of people wake up every single morning inspired to go to work and fulfilled by the work that they do.”

For those of you procrastinating on making the commitment to go to medical school, the time is right, and our next class will begin January 2022. 91�� is accepting students currently and the class is not yet complete. If further information is required, our admissions officers are available to discuss options.

“We can’t undo, but we can rebuild.” Chaitanya Charon

The American University of Integrative Sciences is proud of our record in training physicians, including those that have been unsuccessful in the past and allowed a second chance. Come join us and become the comeback that overcame your personal setback! We would love to share this with you.

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FAQ for Travel to Barbados

Ivan Smith — Fri, 25 Jun 2021 08:08:02 +0000

Where can I find updated travel guide to Barbados?

Do I need a Covid-19 Test Before Traveling to Barbados?

Yes, a negative PCR test 3 days prior to your arrival in Barbados is a requirement to travel to Barbados. Your negative PCR test result should be uploaded to the BIMSafe app or

How long will I have to quarantine be if I’m fully vaccinated?

Vaccinated Travelers

A fully Vaccinated person should expect to be quarantined for 2 days. Fully vaccinated travelers are encouraged to book a minimum of 2 days at approved accommodation.

Unvaccinated Travelers

How long will I have to quarantine if I’m not vaccinated?
Unvaccinated travelers should expect be quarantined for 7 days. On the 5th day of quarantine another PCR test would be done and then 1-2 days waiting period on results.

What if I test positive for COVID?

Before arrival: If you test positive for Covid-19 you must wait until you received a positive PCR test before traveling to Barbados
On arrival: If you test positive for Covid-19 on arrival you will first be assessed at a government facility for a minimum of 24 hours after assessment you will able to self-isolate at a government- approved isolation hotel or government facility. Quarantine will usually be until you receive a negative covid-19 PCR test.

What Quarantine apartments are recommended?

Recommendations are based on price (USD) and central location

Adulo
Price: $89.45 per night
https://www.aduloapartmentsbarbados.com/AAB/public/default.asp

Maresol Apartments
Price: $80 per night
https://monteraybarbados.com/

Plum Tree Rockley
Price: $110.64 per night

Angler Apartment
Price: $82 per night

Meridian Inn
Price: $75 per night

Pirates Inn
Price: $79 per night
https://www.piratesinnbarbados.com/

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May 03, 2021 – 91�� Orientation Basic and Premed Sciences Summer 2021 Semester

Ivan Smith — Fri, 30 Apr 2021 16:13:27 +0000

91�� Orientation Basic and Premed Sciences Summer 2021 Semester

Date: May 3rd 2021

Time: 10: 00 am Barbados Time / 10:00 am Eastern Time US and Canada

Agenda

Welcome & Introduction of 91�� Leadership Faculty and Staff, Academic Policies, Schedule of Classes, Overview of 91�� Catalog and Education.

Dr. Alexey Podcheko, Dean Academic Affairs

Welcome, 91�� Student Support System, Non-Academic Policies, Dress Code, Student Organizations

Dr. Frank Kunik, Dean of Student Affairs,

Welcome Speech by SGA Representative

Psychological Support System at 91��, How to Avoid Burning Out in the Medical School

Ms. Brenda Roach, School Counseling Psychologist

Questions & Answers Session

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91�� students participated in Barbados Community Health Fair November 28th 2020

Ivan Smith — Wed, 02 Dec 2020 15:15:02 +0000

Saturday 28th November 2020 91�� students, faculty, and staff participated in the Independence Health and Fitness Fiesta at the Evening Light Pentecostal Church, Arch Hall St. Thomas, Barbados. This event aimed to promote awareness of the importance of a healthy lifestyle in preventing and managing non-communicable diseases. This event was open to all members of the Barbados population. The event was organized by the Red Cross of Barbados. Along with the Red Cross and 91�� team, the representatives of the Diabetes Foundation, Heart and Stroke Foundation, Cancer Support Services, The Kairos Medical Clinic & Lifestyle center participated in the event.

91�� students helped complete health surveys, measured blood pressure, BMI, and blood oxygen saturation to thirty-seven event visitors. In the afternoon segment of the event from 1 to 5 pm, trained professionals provided presentations related to foot care, skin care, meditation, stress management strategies, and physical activities that promote a healthy lifestyle.
Photos: 91�� team (BSc student S’Ade Williams, MD students Lucidity Obushi and Martha Mbah, Julia Williams and Daniel Taylor) under the guidance of PDS Professor Dr. Maria Villagomez MD Ph.D. consulting visitors and measuring blood pressure and BMI.

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Thanksgiving Day Message, 2020

Ivan Smith — Wed, 02 Dec 2020 15:09:27 +0000

As Thanksgiving Day rapidly approaches, a moment of reflection on this past year would raise the question as to “what we are thankful for?” This past year has certainly been fraught with uncertainty and rapid change. Administration at 91�� along with our student body has weathered this period of turmoil with consternation. The canceling of classroom teaching, hospital rotations, licensing exams, and on-site accreditation visits from accreditation boards has resulted in a period of stagnation and anxiety. Dr. Agnihotri, Mr. Pinckney, and I have instituted town hall meetings to keep our student body informed and aware of changes announced by the ACGME. The canceling of the Step 2 CS exam until June of 2021 has also resulted in the necessity of recreating a suitable alternative school exam to meet ECFMG requirements.

Dr. Agnihotri and I are currently planning to make available a CS equivalent exam in February 2021 to meet ECFMG requirements. This exam does not replace the necessity that our graduating students preparing to enter residency, will still be required to take the USMLE Step 2 CS exam once testing has recommenced. The details of the exam and the optional preparatory course will be announced in mid-December. In order to fulfill ECFMG requirements, the 91�� exam will closely resemble the actual CS exam, with multiple patient encounters, employment of standardized patients, video recordings, and SOAP note preparation and grading of equal scrutiny to the CS exam. The difficulty in firmly announcing the date and format is the fact that COVID infections are continuing to increase along with hospitalizations and deaths. It is anticipated that a further “lockdown” will be announced by the federal government, which will ban all public gatherings?

Thomas Oppong posed the question in a recent article; “In our chaotic world, What’s the best way to live? How can I stay calm in turbulent times? What should I do to build resilience? How should I manage my emotions? “The one message I want to emphasize,” you are not alone.” As a professor at two other Stateside medical schools, I can share with you that medical students throughout the US and Canada are experiencing the same mental and emotional burden of uncertainty as to our own 91�� students. The positives are that hopefully you and your family are healthy and have not been hospitalized? You may have gathered that a number of our administrative faculty, me included have recovered from COVID.

Just as in past pandemics, conflict in the world, world wars, tornadoes, and hurricanes we as a nation have survived and, in the end, have more resolve, compassion, and tenacity. When you think of the personal hurdles you have overcome, to be where you are; you will prevail and will emerge stronger. Remember, “why you started.” The dream has not died, just delayed by a virus unknown to man that has created an unprecedented quagmire in which we will not only survive but will emerge more pertinacious as a society.

Seneca stated: “The greatest obstacle to living is expectancy, which hangs upon tomorrow, and loses today.” Fortunately, with advanced technology, and the ability to improvise; 91�� has been able to continue to offer medical education via a distant learning format. As a result, our pedagogical methods have transformed to meet the needs of 91�� undergraduate medical education and remain COVID compliant with State and Federal guidelines.

I encourage you in this period of reflection and thanksgiving, to appreciate the loved ones in your life, to reach out to those less fortunate with kindness and compassion, and to treasure your own health and remember “Why you Started.”

Don W. Penney MD.MSC.FACEP.FAAEM.
Neurological Surgeon
Provost, Dean Clinical Affairs. 91��
School of Medicine.

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