Students from NMSU and the University of Washington gain practical insights into community health in rural New Mexico
As Shoko Espinoza rode in the passenger seat of a pickup truck, bracing herself against potholes, the bumpy ride exemplified the challenges of navigating the unpaved roads of Sawmill, AZ. Espinoza, a nursing student from the University of Washington, was shadowing Patriva Benally, a community health representative in the Navajo Nation. They traveled to remote areas, providing healthcare assistance, taking vital signs, and offering support to residents. Seven students from UW and New Mexico State University participated in the Health Disparities Field Experience (HDFE), a two-week exploration of health in the U.S. Southwest.
Sponsored by the Partnership for the Advancement of Cancer Research, this immersive program aimed to bridge health disparities in underserved communities. Benally shared the challenges faced by residents, such as limited incomes, lack of basic amenities, and reliance on health workers for various needs. Espinoza found the experience eye-opening, emphasizing the importance of witnessing the realities of health disparities. Ernesto Moralez, HDFE coordinator, highlighted the program’s goal of exposing students to diverse healthcare perspectives. The students toured various communities, engaging with local clinics, shelters, and community centers. They participated in health trainings, interacted with professionals, and heard firsthand accounts from community members. Debbie Higgs, an NMSU graduate student, described the program as a unique opportunity focused on health disparities.
The students traveled over 400 miles, discovering commonalities and differences among cultures, gaining valuable insights for their future roles as advocates. Angie Sanchez Corral from NMDOH emphasized the program’s significance for both learning and community development. Many students left with a deeper understanding of health disparities and a renewed passion for advocating for underrepresented communities. Marissa Jackson, a recent UW graduate, acknowledged the profound impact of hearing people’s stories, while Arianne Sandel, a UW graduate student, felt inspired to explore public health further and step out of her comfort zone.