PROGRAM DIRECTORS' MESSAGE:

The United States is rapidly becoming a more diverse nation as demonstrated by the fact that non-white racial and ethnic groups will constitute a majority of the American population later in this century. According to the Institute of Medicine (IOM) of the National Academies, increasing racial and ethnic diversity among health professionals is essential as the evidence indicates that diversity is associated with improved access to care for racial and ethnic minority patients, greater patient choice and satisfaction, and provides better educational experiences for all health professions students.

Another IOM report entitled, Unequal Treatment: Confronting Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Health Care found that research demonstrates significant variation in the rates of medical procedures by race, even when insurance status, income, age, and severity of conditions are comparable. This research indicates that U.S. racial and ethnic minorities are less likely to receive even routine medical procedures and experience a lower quality of health services underscoring the existence of disparities.

Our program's mission is to improve the health of individuals and communities with a focus on recruiting and serving underserved populations, by training clinicians who integrate the Physician Assistant and Public Health disciplines. Additional training in public health principles complements clinical practice and is essential in addressing pressing health challenges.

Our strategic plan sets out to increase the number of graduates who are underrepresented minorities in the PA and public health professions and to increase the number of students from health professional shortage areas particularly in California.

The Joint Program provides training in clinical, preventative, and health promotion foundations; elements that when combined will prepare a graduate to understand that the wellness of one individual is linked to the wellness of their communities.

The Program has been recognized as an innovative training model responsive to the health needs of the nation. Our faculty consist of experienced clinicians and educators committed to the mission of the program.

Thank you for your interest in the Program.



Touro University - California
College of Health Sciences
Joint MSPAS/MPH Program
1310 Johnson Lane, Mare Island
Vallejo, CA 94592