Buffalo, NY - Instead of heading to the beach, a dedicated team of 35 Canisius pre-health students traveled to Ashtabula, OH, to volunteer nearly 1,000 hours at a Remote Area Medical (RAM) clinic.
The Griffs provided critical medical, dental, and vision care to more than 400 patients, delivering services valued at more than $245,000. This marks the 14th RAM mission for Canisius students since 2018, demonstrating the university's ongoing commitment to community service and healthcare access.
The students, representing pre-med, pre-dental, and pre-physician assistant programs, played vital roles throughout the clinic. Their responsibilities ranged from setting up medical bays and guiding patients to serving as interpreters and providing compassionate support. Two Canisius students served as Core Volunteers, leading specific clinic areas, with another currently in training.
"Our students understand that healthcare is about more than just medical procedures," says Allyson Backstrom, director of the George E. Schreiner '43, MD, Pre-Medical Center. "They're committed to creating a welcoming environment and providing holistic support to patients in need."
Beyond direct medical services, the Griffs also conducted health education, focusing on nutritional awareness and the impact of sugar consumption on oral and metabolic health. They encouraged patients to align with World Health Organization recommendations for sugar intake.
Notably, nearly half of the patients served had some form of health insurance but still struggled to afford essential healthcare, particularly dental and vision services. This underscores the critical importance of RAM clinics in bridging healthcare gaps.
The service trip was sponsored by the Society of Pre-Health Professionals student organization and the Dr. George E. Schreiner '43 Pre-Medical Center.
The Canisius team's commitment will continue in April with clinic support planned in Hudson Falls, NY, as well as upcoming missions in Sharon, PA and Olean, NY later this year.
