Solve medical mysteries at DMU's Mini Medical School

DES MOINES, IA (01/18/2013)(readMedia)-- Be a doctor for a night and solve medical mysteries at Des Moines University's Mini Medical School. Analyze patients with suspicious symptoms by examining lab results, X-rays, MRIs and other tests and help make the diagnosis.

Beginning February 5, DMU will tackle one or two medical mysteries every Tuesday night for five weeks. Classes are held from 7-8:30 p.m. in the Student Education Center Auditorium, 3300 Grand Avenue.

"Based on feedback from last year, people are interested in unique case studies about important health issues," said Melissa Wilder, DMU's manager of community relations. "We decided to utilize the expertise of our faculty members to develop a series that is interactive, informative and fun."

In its 13th year, Mini Medical School offers the public non-credit education on health topics for a nominal fee. Classes are taught by Des Moines University faculty and local experts on a level that is appropriate for all ages middle school and up. This year's theme – Medical Mysteries, Solved! – will allow participants to think like a doctor and solve interesting medical cases.

"A main focus here at DMU is to increase community awareness and understanding about health issues," explains Wilder. "Mini Medical School is a great way for our faculty to 'do a world of good' right here in our own community."

The full five-class series is $10 for students and $25 for the general public. Visit www.dmu.edu/minimed or call 515-271-1374 for more information or to register.

###

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.