Community Health Mentor Spotlight: Michael Campbell
The Interprofessional Community Scholars Program (IPCS) pairs teams of students from various health-related disciplines with an older adult, who we call a Community Health Mentor, living in the local community.
As part of the program, students help these adults enhance their digital literacy skills, access needed community-based care, and identify and reach personal health and wellness goals, all while learning about teamwork, patient-centered care, and community health. Older adults share their experiences and provide feedback to help students become better practitioners.
Here local resident Michael Campbell shares his reflections on partnering IPCS as a Community Health Member.
What did you find valuable about your experience with IPCS?
I am an older adult, and I think the fact that Ohio State was able to identify older adults for the IP Community Scholars program is very necessary. A lot of older adults have limited skills in engagement with technology. For example, during COVID-19, we were forced into telehealth. A lot of older adults don't have experience with telehealth.
What were some of the digital health literacy skills you learned?
The program taught me how to better use technology to care for my health needs. One thing the students showed me is how to use MyChart to review and stay on top of my medical history. It’s now easily accessible. And when I have a doctor's appointment, I can now pre-register via MyChart. Those kinds of skills are invaluable.
"A lot of older adults don't have experience with telehealth. Students showed me how to use MyChart to review and stay on top of my medical history. When I have a doctor's appointment, I can now pre-register via MyChart. Those kinds of skills are invaluable."
Michael Campbell
What was it like working with the students?
The students were great—having their support during a difficult time was beneficial to me. I trusted them because they were students. They asked excellent and caring questions. The fact that OSU is getting students directly involved in the community to help with a number of important issues is extremely valuable.
How has participating changed your outlook on health and health care?
My participation in the program inspired me to become a Community Health Worker, and I enrolled in the College of Nursing program. I want to assist people in the same way—I want to help them organize their medical needs and support them with other areas of need. Today, I will work as a full-time CHW in the Columbus community.
Learn more about becoming a Community Health Mentor here.