TRUST Frequently asked Questions

TRUST Frequently Asked Questions

 

Why would I want to participate in the TRUST Program?

For those students entering medical school with a desire to practice medicine in a rural or underserved setting, TRUST offers an excellent opportunity to nurture that desire. TRUST offers opportunities not available to all UW medical students. TRUST Scholars participate in a longitudinal, comprehensive program that includes being assigned to a College Mentor with underserved experience who will be present throughout the TRUST Scholars’ medical school journey. In addition to College mentors, the TRUST staff will help and advise Scholars as they progress through medical school and on to residency. If funding is available we support TRUST Scholars attendance at regional and national meetings related to underserved healthcare issues or residency planning. In cases where opportunities are limited, TRUST Scholars often receive preferential treatment.

 

What about the cost associated with my travel?

Travel costs are  supported by the Wyoming TRUST program.

 

Do I have to choose a primary care specialty to participate in TRUST?

No. TRUST Scholars will generally choose a primary care specialty (Family Medicine, Internal Medicine or Pediatrics). However, other specialties lend themselves to underserved practices, such as: General Surgery, OB/Gyn, Psychiatry, etc. In general, participating in TRUST will be advantageous preparation for students entering most specialties.

 

Do I get to choose where I will spend my time?

Wyoming currently has three WRITE (WWAMI Rural Integrated Training Experience) sites.  Participation in TRUST is linked to participation in WRITE, so there are 3 locations a TRUST student may be assigned: Douglas, Lander and Powell.

 

Will participating in TRUST require significantly more time in medical school?

TRUST does require a little extra time but the activities provide opportunities and experiences that will help guide you on your path to practicing in a rural or underserved community. There is an observation experience before starting medical school as well as observation experiences during the first year. These experiences and monthly corespondence with your TRUST Preceptor in fulfills part of the requirements of the Underserved Pathway (UP) . Evening seminars and journal clubs, will require some additional time. Most WWAMI students choose to participate in the Rural/Underserved Opportunities Program (R/UOP) experience. Completing WWAMI Rural Integrated Training Experience (WRITE) satisfies part of the third year, required curriculum. Attending a national or regional meeting would require some additional, but well spent time.

 

What happens if I decide to leave the TRUST program prior to graduation?

Experience has shown that students who complete the WRITE program have matched in competitive residency programs. TRUST will prepare you to be an excellent physician no matter what your career choice. We expect all Scholars to complete the TRUST program. If circumstances arise that could prevent you from completing the program, please contact your regional dean or a TRUST leader as soon as possible to talk about options.

 

How do I apply for the TRUST program?