While classrooms and the on-campus clinic remain closed due to COVID-19, National University’s naturopathic medicine students have been able to successfully adapt through online coursework and virtual telehealth visits with patients.
During the later phases of quarantine, ND interns have been conducting telehealth visits with their patients via Zoom for Healthcare, a secure video chat application available on smartphones, tablets or computers.
Chief Clinician of Naturopathic Medicine, NUHS Whole Health Center
“Telehealth is a great way to connect with patients in a low-risk manner. It also allows the patient to have their visit in the comfort of their homes, and sometimes cars.”
The telehealth visits have been highly beneficial for ND interns since it allows them to meet their graduation requirements while also serving as a new learning tool.
“Telehealth will be a mainstay in their future practices, and they are gaining valuable experience on how to conduct these types of visits prior to graduation,” Dr. Bose said. “They are learning how to make effective connections with patients in a virtual format, in addition to being flexible during a global pandemic.”
ND Interns and clinicians have already attended to a variety of patients and health problems, including abdominal pain, constipation and bloating, diabetes, hypertension, anxiety, depression, weight gain, etc. In addition to observing the patient, interns are able to overcome the limitations of virtual visits by having patients perform their own vitals on camera and describe their symptoms as best as possible. Clinicians and interns are also able to teach patients how to perform modalities such as hydrotherapy and rehabilitation exercises along with how to stimulate acupressure points.
“It requires some modifications, but has been effective,” Dr. Bose said. “So far, our patients have been grateful to be able to resume care. They missed their clinicians and interns over the last couple of months and are excited to see us again.”
In addition to meeting with interns, patients can still receive prescribed supplements via Fullscript dispensary, a virtual supplement delivery service, and at the clinic’s dispensary, which is open during limited days and hours.
For more information about the clinical opportunities typically available to ND students at National University, visit the NUHS website.
Faculty member videos offer advice and words of encouragement during quarantine
NUHS faculty members have made several efforts to help keep students productive and in good spirits during quarantine. Recently faculty members created short videos offering self-care and study-from-home tips, which were shared on NUHS’ Facebook page.
Sandra Rogers, PhD, Dean, College of Professional Studies, recommended creating virtual study groups and staying in close virtual contact with other students. Patricia Coe, DC, ND, MSACP, NUHS Massage Therapy Instructor, advised students to get outside every day. Dr. Bose also shared well wishes and introduced her newest feline and canine co-workers.
Through the efforts of both students and faculty, NUHS has been able to remain on track for the current schedule using an online format for program delivery, allowing students to graduate and complete their coursework on time. The university expects students to resume face-to-face labs and in-person clinic around mid-July.
For more university updates pertinent to current and future students regarding COVID-19, visit the centralized update page on the NUHS website.
NUHS honors Spring 2020 graduates through video
Like many other universities that had to forego a traditional graduation ceremony in the spring, NUHS honored Spring 2020 graduates in alternative ways.
NUHS President Dr. Stiefel was available for social distancing graduation photos. Guadalupe Garcia graduated with her ND and DC.
NUHS created a video celebrating the accomplishments of graduates, featuring remarks from NUHS President Joseph Stiefel, MS, EdD, DC, along with a presentation of the 51 graduates who have earned diplomas in chiropractic, naturopathic medicine, advanced clinical practice, acupuncture, oriental medicine and biomedical sciences.
In his remarks, Dr. Stiefel commended graduates not only for their hard work academically, but for social distancing.
“Your sacrifice has helped get this nation back on its feet sooner,” he said.
Attend a virtual event about NUHS naturopathic medicine program
While NUHS temporarily suspended on-campus visit events, a number of virtual events for prospective students have been introduced.
Let’s Chat is a weekly, free flowing Q&A event featuring a combination of students, counselors, faculty, alums and more.
The Virtual ND Experience event allows participants to gain a better understanding of naturopathic medicine, learn about career options and participate in a unique herbal product presentation led by prominent NUHS faculty.
The next series of events will be posted to the NUHS website. For more information about the ND program, you can also contact the Admissions Office by calling 1-800-826-6285.
