When it comes to using technology to address a variety of patient issues, the C.A.R.E.N., or Computer Assisted Rehabilitation Environment at the Therapy Institute, right here on the Arizona campus, is that technology. Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of meeting up with a Physical Therapy instructor and Clinical Coordinator, Dr. Celeste Delap, and got first-hand experience with some of this very unique technology. Take a look.
This campus is incredible. I’m curious, Dr. Delap, like, what drew you here?
– Actually, I get to do all the things I love. I get to treat patients, I get to teach students and I get to do research.
– Yeah, how cool is that? The other thing that I’ve noticed is the technology is insane.
– It’s true. And where I work at the Therapy Institute, we actually have the coolest stuff. Do you wanna come see it?
– I would love to. This room is awesome. Lots going on here. What’s happening?
– This is our vision therapy room. We help people from all areas, so all the way from kids to professional athletes. So sometimes we have people that come in that have brain injuries and they have to work on hand eye coordination all the way up to people that actually are trying to do it for a living. So trying to catch a ball and read at the same time.
– That’s interesting.
– The thing on the wall is actually having them use a peripheral vision.
– So cool.
– Yep. And then all the way up to people having to use mechanics to help them walk.
– Wow, that’s amazing. All this just to help people get better, it’s a… You’ve like the best job in the world.
– I do, I do, It’s awesome. I gotta show you on C.A.R.E.N, you wanna see it? Yeah, let’s see it.
– All right, let’s go.
– All right.
– Alex, this is the C.A.R.E.N. room. This is where I spend a lot of time and there’s only a handful of them in the US and not even that many in the world.
– Ah, that’s amazing.
– It really is. So it’s a virtual reality environment and we use it for lots of different reasons. I use it like a bridge for the real life from the clinic, so we are able to come in here and do a lot of real life things, but we’re also able to have students in here from all different disciplines.
– All of that on this machine?
– Yes.
– How does it work?
– It’s built on like a motion sensor platform, and so we can actually move the whole platform and have people walking on it. So I had a patient that’s a flight attendant and we couldn’t actually get her up in the air to figure out if she could do her work.
– Oh.
– So we actually made it so that she could be walking in the environment in a safe way.
– [Alex] That’s so cool.
– It really is. Do you wanna get on it?
– I would love to go.
– Oh, we’re going, let’s go.
– Okay.
Those were some incredible technologies and what amazing pieces of equipment these students have at their disposal for learning. That was a lot of fun. Thank you so much for sharing that with us, Dr. Delap. That was great.
It’s time to meet Miriam, a First-year Dental Medicine student with one incredible non-traditional story. Coming out on top, after facing adversity in life, is something everyone aspires to do. With perseverance and help from Midwestern University, she has done just that. Take it away, Miriam.
– Thanks, Alex. Hello everyone. I went from being pregnant and homeless to becoming a dentist through the help of Midwestern University. Seven years ago, I moved across the globe and assimilated to a new culture. That’s when my son got diagnosed with autism, which has ultimately opened doors for treatment. This has sparked my desire to bridge access to care barriers and serve the underserved within our community. Midwestern is more than just an institution, it is a home where everyone belongs. As a non-traditional student when researching different dental schools, I aim to find a place that embraces diversity, fosters a culture of growth and belonging, and focuses on providing holistic and competent care to the community. I desired a place that genuinely cared about training the next healthcare professionals and I found that here. As dentists, we’re not just treating a tooth, we’re treating a tooth that is attached to a person. That philosophy of One Health is what Midwestern was founded on. Midwestern has opened up opportunities that I couldn’t have imagined of. As a first year dental student, I was able to join and lead organizations such as the American Student Dental Association. I serve our marginalized community ranging from participating at our annual Give Kids A Smile event to traveling to Rainbow Acres, an assisted living community for individuals with developmental disabilities. Being at Midwestern has opened doors for me to amplify my voice for advocacy of the underserved. The adversity I overcame has shaped me into a resilient woman ready to embrace the role of a dentist and create smiles through my experiences and to training at Midwestern, I won’t just be competent to treat patients, but I’ll be able to provide holistic and empathetic care to all people with all abilities. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Miriam, your story is so uplifting. Overcoming the challenges in your life and to achieve a Doctorate of Dental Medicine is absolutely amazing. The future of healthcare is in great hands with compassionate healthcare professionals at Midwestern University. Thank you for sharing your journey with us, Miriam. Take care.
Sometimes experiencing your own ailments can lead you to making a career choice. Speech-Language Pathology student Alex was firmly established as a Dental Medicine student until he discovered he had a communication disorder. This led him down a new path at Midwestern University. Alex, tell us all about it.
– Thank you for the introduction, Alex. Ever since I was in middle school, I knew I wanted to work in healthcare and help other people. My healthcare career began when I volunteered at a hospital and worked as an EMT. Then I decided I wanted to become a dentist, but it wasn’t until later, I discovered speech language pathology and found my path. This discovery began my third year of dental school. Even though I passed my classes in the first two years, I began the struggle. I had a very difficult time following instructions and I could not remember what was said or make out words very well. I was about to be forced to withdraw until I went to see an audiologist where I was diagnosed with Central Auditory Processing Disorder. That’s when I decided I wanted to work with people with communication disorders. I looked up speech language pathology programs in Arizona, found Midwestern and the rest was history. Midwestern has the most well-rounded support for students I have ever seen. There truly is an experience for everyone on campus. I even get to practice teletherapy with my clients, which ironically is the same audiology treatment I did as a patient. Midwestern offers multiple resources to help students with their mental health, nutrition and exercise. If you cannot meet with a therapist or nutritionist, they will schedule a teletherapy appointment with you. Here at Midwestern, they help you succeed more than just the educational aspect. Being a student for as long as I’ve been, I know it’s not just about the knowledge you gain, it’s also about the support that you receive. Midwestern’s SLP program has truly emphasized how to treat my future patients with respect, dignity, and patience. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– So inspiring and an incredible journey of resilience and perseverance, Alex. The Speech-Language Pathology Program at Midwestern offers an integrated educational pathway that combines academic research and clinical experiences, creating the next generation of well-prepared speech-language pathologists like Alex. Thanks for sharing your story.
Second-year Veterinary Medicine student Kiarra fell in love with animals when traveling to Bosnia as a young child. She has taken that love and turned it into a career path at Midwestern University. Kiarra, we can’t wait to hear your story. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex, and (speaking German). As a First-generation student with much of my family in Germany and Bosnia, finding the right university meant more than just academics. It was about discovering a supportive community where I could truly thrive. Midwestern University proved to be the perfect fit. With club involvement central to the student experience, I fostered a deep sense of belonging. Serving as president of the Shelter club and the veterinary team of health outreach through Medicine and education or home, along with being a member of Black Student Alliance have deeply connected me with both my studies and peers. Home also fosters One Health interdisciplinary connections between human medicine and vet students through collaboration at monthly wellness clinics at a local homeless shelter. Through the collaboration between Shelter Club and MWU’s Mobile Clinic, I’ve gained real world experience performing neuter on stray cats within my first year of vet school. With over a hundred specialized clubs, students have opportunities to translate classroom learning into practical experiences fostering both personal and academic growth. Midwestern’s commitment to academic excellence is evident in its cutting edge facilities like the Animal Health Institute offering immersive learning experiences through live animal and simulation labs. My favorite has been our large animal labs where I get experience with both horses and cows. These labs mimic real world settings and have helped sharpen my clinical skills, engaging with diverse communities, participating in practical labs and tackling real world healthcare challenges have equipped me to navigate the complexities of the field, ensuring that I’m well prepared to make a meaningful impact as a veterinarian. So there you have it. A glimpse into my journey at MWU where passion, purpose, and community come together to shape the veterinarians of tomorrow. Back to you, Alex. Goodbye.
– That is such a great story, Kiarra. Midwestern University, home to Arizona’s first veterinary college, is helping students like Kiarra turn their passion for animals into a career that provides animals with care. Thanks again for sharing.
Let’s meet Josh, a Third-year Optometry student. At Midwestern, the One Health Initiative and the interdisciplinary courses and environment set them apart. Future doctors from all different fields work together to ensure patients of all species receive the highest care. Josh knows all about this kind of collaborative care. Tell us more.
– That’s what I’m talking about, Alex. What’s up, everyone? When it came to choosing the perfect Optometry school for me, I not only wanted the faculty and student support, but also the technology to enhance my education and the Arizona College of Optometry at Midwestern University did not disappoint. Being from wet Washington state, it took a lot to get my wife and I to move down to the desert, but the on-campus housing has been great for us and my pet Corgi named Kiwi. At Midwestern, I’m actively involved in helping optometry students and pre-optometry students navigate their way through this career. Whether that’s in person or on social media. My dream is to become a neuro optometrist and here I have found faculty mentors who are distinguished doctors in that field. Midwestern incorporates Optometry’s vision therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech language pathology, and clinical psychology together at the New Therapy Institute where they utilize multidisciplinary care to take care of brain injury patients and other people with specialized needs. The technology at the Therapy Institute is truly one of a kind. The state-of-the-art equipment across campus allows students like me to participate in patient care and research at the level. Midwestern connects their students of all their healthcare programs through their One Health Initiative where they incorporate interdisciplinary care into our curriculum. I’m currently the president of the Collaborative Care Club where each therapy discipline meets together to better help our patients. We recently hosted the Adaptive Olympics where each profession taught about their strengths and we participated in fun therapy activities including yolked prism glasses, balance boards and other specialty specific tools. MWU has given me the new perspectives and unique experiences to help me become a leader and innovator in optometry. That’s all for me. Back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Josh. It sounds like working with students from other programs side by side is a big part of the Midwestern University student experience. The One Health Initiative principles and practices strengthen the bonds of healthcare professionals through education and research to benefit the health quality of life and wellbeing of all species. Take care.
Let’s meet Ashley, a First-year Osteopathic Medicine student who’s a big believer in the hands-on, ‘day one ready’ approach. Clinical experiences are an essential part of education here at Midwestern. Graduate level students and expert clinical faculty work side by side to provide exceptional care. Ashley, tell us more.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. Applying to medical school can be stressful. I knew I wanted somewhere with not only an exceptional curriculum in faculty, but somewhere where I could be hands-on in my learning. Midwestern university checks all those boxes and then some. The commitment to providing early clinical exposure give students an immersive experience at our state-of-the-art Simulation Center. Here you’ll find lookalike hospital surgical, as well as outpatient clinic rooms for standardized patient exams and treatments. That’s right, I’ve already had experience examining patients as well as the chance to place a chest tube. Alright, that one was on our interactive simulation mannequin of course. Clear. Being able to practice medicine hands-on doesn’t stop there. Our curriculum is integrated with ultrasound training where students participate in hands-on workshops led by our faculty. Being a member of the clinical skills club here on campus has enhanced my practical knowledge through extracurricular activities such as suturing and laparoscopic workshops, learning how to scrub and gown in an OR setting, as well as working with simulated clinical scenarios. These immersive experiences have bridged the gap for me between my classroom study and patient care. Midwestern truly values your learning and career readiness while providing opportunities that bring your education to life. You are ensured to be well prepared to face the challenges of practicing medicine while being instilled with a sense of confidence and professionalism along the way. Using what I learned in the classroom and being able to apply it through a clinical setting. Starting year one has provided me with a solid foundation in my medical training. I’m excited to continue this journey knowing I’m well equipped to be the best physician I can be. Thanks to the day one ready preparation I’m receiving here at Midwestern University. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Ashley. It is so cool that students are practicing clinical skills that will help prepare them for real-world encounters and the clinics offer patient services with convenient, centralized scheduling, easy inter specialty referrals and several specialty areas all in one central location. Amazing. Thanks again, Ashley.
Let’s hear from Daniel, an Osteopathic Medicine student. For Daniel, the road to medical school was certainly not a long journey. Growing up in Downers Grove, just minutes from the Midwestern campus, Daniel was inspired during his high school visit to the campus. This was all he needed to set his sights on a career in healthcare. Daniel, you are up.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. I’ve lived in Illinois my whole life. I graduated from the University of Illinois, Chicago and now I’m back in the suburbs to get my doctorate at Midwestern University. In high school, my anatomy teacher took our class on a field trip to Midwestern. This was a day I experienced my passion for the very first time I wanted to become a doctor. Seeing Midwestern state-of-the-art facilities and students dissecting actual cadavers blew my mind and left an everlasting impact on me. Now, through programs like High School Career Days and Health Careers Institute, Midwestern offers me the opportunity to inspire others just like Midwestern inspired me. As medical students, we study a lot, but when we are studying, there’s so many ways to let our brains relax and recalibrate. Like biking up Lakeshore Drive and taking in the beautiful city skyline or heading over to the famous Lincoln Park Zoo. Midwestern’s location offers the best of both worlds, the tranquility of the suburbs and the vibrant energy of downtown Chicago. Midwestern offers fun on campus too. Many students participate in intramural sports revolving around specialties like dental, medical, pharmacy, and physical therapy, which creates exciting rivalries. Midwestern has taught me to study hard while also connecting with my classmates, being a part of the community and making memories I’ll never forget. I feel blessed to be a part of this community. Back to you, Alex.
– That is such a fantastic story, Daniel. Midwestern University is committed to outreach and encouraging the next generation of students to pursue careers in healthcare. Thanks again, Daniel, for sharing your story.
Let’s hear from Katie. As a future third-generation dentist, Katie has some big shoes to fill. Her family knows the true value of a Dental Medicine education and looked for a school like Midwestern University that offered all the latest technology for her to attend. Katie, take it away.
– Thanks about introduction, Alex. Some might say a love for teeth runs in my veins as I’m a soon to be third generation dentist, but guess what? Dental school in the entire dental field has changed a lot since my grandpa graduated back in 1964 and my dad back in 2001. From paper to electronic charts in the entire introduction of digital dentistry, Midwestern has strived to stay up to date with the latest technology and best ways to provide care to their patients while preparing their students to enter the profession. Digital charts are just the tip of the iceberg here at Midwestern. This year we upgraded to Epic a healthcare software system that allows us to integrate with other medical providers and communicate easily with patients on the same platform. We also have embraced the digital dentistry wave with the CEREC scanner. This allows us to scan intraorally, take that scan, design and mill a crown all in the same day. Getting to work with this real world technology on a day-to-day basis is just one example of how Midwestern prepares their students for a real world healthcare career. This is all during our third and fourth years. While we’re working at the Midwestern University Multi-Specialty Clinic. During our first and second years, students are exposed to things like 3D printers and working with lasers. This technological exposure at Midwestern doesn’t stop at the curriculum. There are many research opportunities that can tap into students’ curiosity. Technology might always be changing, but if there’s one thing that stays true in dentistry is it’s not about the cool gadgets. What I’ve learned from my grandfather, father and here at Midwestern is that dentistry is about putting the patient first. That’s my story, Alex. Back to you.
– Thanks for sharing your story, Katie. With access to the most cutting-edge technology and the guidance of experienced clinical faculty here at Midwestern, we are sure you are going to continue in a long line of dentists in your family. Thanks, Katie.
Let’s hear from Natalie. As a First-generation, First-year Pharmacy student, Natalie is a Student Ambassador for Midwestern University who enjoys volunteering at one of the many clinics available to her. Clinical experience at Midwestern is a pivotal part of the educational environment and making sure Midwestern graduates are ‘day one ready’. Natalie, tell us more.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be in the medical field. I started off volunteering at the age of 16 at a nearby oncology center, not knowing what kind of medical professional I would be. 10 years later, I’m here at Midwestern knowing who and where I want to be. Midwestern’s pharmacy program is full of opportunities to apply the skills you learn in the classroom. Currently, I’m a volunteer at a clinic for the underserved. My role is to provide medication therapy management. This project promotes collaboration between the healthcare team and patient to optimize safe and effective medication use along with preventative health screenings. With supervision from the pharmacist on site, we provide a medication assessment, review and education adherence within food pantries and housing insecurity shelters. Pharmacy school can be stressful, but it is these real life experiences that make the hard work rewarding. As a first year pharmacy student, this clinical experience has helped me gain the confidence in my future role as a pharmacist. Midwestern cares about students finding their passion and succeeding. The Illinois Council of Health Pharmacists chapter at Midwestern helps students interested in residency and working in a clinical setting. There different networks in pediatrics, oncology, and infectious diseases, and psychiatry allows the students the opportunity to grow and learn in their field of interest. As of now, we have hosted several pharmacy advocacy events, diversity, equity, and inclusion panels and presentations. The reason I got into the medical field is my parents, unfortunately, they both passed recently. Continuing my education without my cheerleaders has been tough, but Midwestern faculty have offered their full support from the very beginning and helped me gain the necessary skills to become a clinical specialty pharmacist and make my parents proud. Back to you, Alex.
– Very inspiring and helpful to so many people, Natalie. Your volunteer work at the clinic not only affords you the opportunity to learn and grow, but also positively impact your community. We can really see the passion you have for Midwestern and for helping others. Cheers, Natalie.
At Midwestern University, getting students ‘Day One Ready’ is a big part of their promise, and what better way than to have students work with the most updated equipment and technology. Earlier this week, I met Dr. Kelly Lempicki, who oversees the Sim Center, where students from multiple disciplines go to learn and experience all types of situations centered in technology. Take a look.
This is absolutely fascinating.
– This whole room is filled with virtual reality trainers for optometry students where they can look at abnormalities from the front to the back of the eye.
– And how many abnormalities can there be in the eye?
– There are hundreds, and the nice thing about this platform is it lets each student have their own login so the system can track what the students have done, and then faculty can go back and see the student’s progression over time. So it’s really great not only for the students, but also for faculty.
– Yeah, I mean, what an incredible resource.
– Yeah, take another look.
– Yeah, it’s awesome. These mannequins are really lifelike.
– Yes, the Dental Simulation clinic here has a station for every student to work at. They have all the tools that they need at their station. They’re suctioned, their water, their drill, everything they would have in a real clinic setting. Beyond this room, there is so much advanced technology as well that students have a chance to work with to really hone their skills in more advanced dental procedures. You wouldn’t want them working on your teeth for the first time if they hadn’t had this practice, would you?
– Yeah, I mean I feel very confident looking at what they’re getting to experience here, it’s amazing.
– Hands off, Alex.
– Okay, sorry, stop touching things.
– Now we’re here in our simulation center where we work with all of our programs on campus to provide that bridge between the classroom where students are learning information before they’re out in real healthcare settings and they have a chance to practice in a realistic environment. So students might work with just students from their own program or students from other programs on campus and interprofessional activities.
– Okay, so what would be like an example? What would go down in here?
– So for example, a mock code patient loses their pulse, they’re not breathing. In real life, a swarm of providers is gonna come into that patient’s room, and we can simulate that here for our students. Our medical students are coming in respiratory, pharmacy. They’re gonna grab the meds from that crash cart, hand those over for administration, somebody’s doing their chest compressions. It gives students that practice in that realistic environment before they’re out and working with real patients.
– Just walking up here, it felt like a real hospital,
– As real as it gets. Let’s give you a chance to practice here, Alex.
– Okay, here we go. 1, 2, 3…
That is some pretty exciting stuff. Dr. Lempicki. Experiencing all those patient situations will give students confidence that they will be ready for anything they face thanks to Midwestern’s latest technologies.