Kansas Health Science Center–Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine

Kansas Health Science Center–Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (KHSC-KCOM) is a private, non-profit institution dedicated to the education and training of osteopathic physicians. Located in the state of Kansas, KHSC-KCOM is committed to addressing the healthcare needs of rural and underserved populations by preparing students to practice osteopathic medicine with a focus on primary care, holistic approaches, and patient-centered care.

History

The Kansas Health Science Center–Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine was established to respond to the critical need for healthcare providers in rural and underserved areas of Kansas and the wider region. Its foundation was driven by the principles of osteopathic medicine, which emphasize a whole-person approach to care, the body's ability to heal itself, and the importance of preventive medicine.

Academic Programs

KHSC-KCOM offers a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) program, which is designed to educate and train students to become competent osteopathic physicians. The curriculum integrates basic science knowledge with clinical skills from the first year, promoting a hands-on approach to medical education. Students engage in clinical rotations in various medical specialties, including family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, and surgery, among others, to ensure a well-rounded education.

Pre-Clinical Education

The first two years of the DO program focus on pre-clinical education, where students learn the foundational sciences necessary for medical practice, such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and pathology. This phase also includes training in osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM), a distinctive aspect of osteopathic medical education that teaches students how to use their hands to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury.

Clinical Education

The final two years are dedicated to clinical education, where students apply their knowledge and skills in real-world healthcare settings under the supervision of experienced physicians. These clinical rotations take place in hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities, providing students with the opportunity to care for patients while learning from practicing healthcare professionals.

Campus

The KHSC-KCOM campus features state-of-the-art facilities designed to support the educational needs of its students. This includes modern classrooms, laboratories, and simulation centers where students can practice clinical skills in a safe and controlled environment.

Accreditation

KHSC-KCOM is accredited by the Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA), the accrediting agency for colleges of osteopathic medicine in the United States. This accreditation ensures that the college meets or exceeds standards for the education of osteopathic physicians.

Community Engagement

A key component of KHSC-KCOM's mission is to serve the community and improve healthcare delivery in underserved areas. The college encourages students to engage in community service and outreach programs, providing healthcare services, education, and support to those in need.

Future Directions

Looking forward, KHSC-KCOM aims to expand its academic programs and research initiatives to further contribute to the field of osteopathic medicine. The college is committed to innovation in medical education and healthcare delivery, with the goal of improving health outcomes for communities in Kansas and beyond.