Explore the Special Needs of the Veteran Patient September 26 at DMU

DES MOINES, IA (09/18/2012)(readMedia)-- Des Moines University invites students, health care providers and the public for a presentation and panel discussing veteran's health care on Wednesday, September 26, from 8 to 10 a.m. The free event is hosted by DMU's International Medicine Club and will be held in the Student Education Center Auditorium, 3300 Grand Avenue.

The panel will explore topics including how clinicians can address and treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the prevention of narcotic dependence among veterans, the unique aspects of health care for female veterans and traumatic brain injuries. Panel members will include Des Moines area veterans as well as Lori Drumm, D.O., M.B.A., Joseph Doro, D.O., Barbara Krugler, M.B.A., and John Wallace, Ph.D., of the Veterans Administration Central Iowa Health Care System.

"We are aware that many veterans avoid VA hospitals for several reasons and we are trying to turn that around with our future health professionals," said Nikki Cook, vice president of the International Medicine Club and D.O. student in the class of 2015. "This event will make people aware of the special needs of veteran patients and better equip our emerging doctors."

DMU's International Medicine Club is a student-driven organization that periodically offers opportunities designed to promote cultural competency across health care around the world. For a map and directions to campus, visit www.dmu.edu/about/campus.

Des Moines University is the only private medical school in Iowa, offering graduate-level, professional degree programs in osteopathic medicine, podiatric medicine, physical therapy, physician assistant studies, health care administration, anatomy, biomedical sciences and public health. Founded in 1898, the institution offers superior academics in a collaborative environment. DMU students' pass rate on national examinations and board certifications is consistently higher than the national average and the rates at similar institutions.