The program expands the Sanford School of Medicine’s class size to address rural health care needs in the state and is part of Gov. Dennis Daugaard’s Workforce Initiative Program (WINS).

“We are tremendously excited about the opportunities that this program will provide our students as they are exposed to the rewards of practicing primary care medicine and living in a rural community,” said Susan Anderson, M.D., director of the FARM program.

The FARM program is a unique opportunity for a select group of medical students to obtain nine months of clinical training in a rural community. Active engagement in the community will be an important part of student experiences. This will include design and implementation by the student of a project to address a local health care concern. The ultimate goal of this immersive experience is to increase the number of primary care physicians who practice in rural South Dakota

During the coming months up to six students will be selected for the program. According to Anderson, those who participate will benefit from involvement in the care of patients in a rural setting, which can provide unique challenges.

Anderson expects the program to generate high interest among medical students and hopes to eventually expand the program into additional rural communities throughout the state.

“The number of inquiries we have already received from students indicates excitement about the program,” she said. “We anticipate strong participation and growth in the coming years.”

For more information about the FARM program, please visit www.usd.edu/medical-school/medical-doctor-program/farm.cfm.

Press Contact
Hanna DeLange
Contact Email usdnews@usd.edu
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