SEARCH - Student Energy in Action for Regina Community Health

SEARCH – Student Energy in Action in Regina for Community Health Inc. is a student run, interdisciplinary primary health care initiative situated in the North Central community of Regina. SEARCH has many student volunteers, professional mentors, and partners, and our pool is constantly growing. SEARCH volunteers have built relationships and they serve over 1000 clients each year. Each Saturday aft

ernoon (Monday evenings in May to August) SEARCH provides an informal, drop-in clinic, which also provides healthy snacks and beverages, childcare, and a warm and safe environment. SEARCH offers health related programs and activities targeted towards needs identified by community members. Members of SEARCH recognize the intrinsic value of all people and their right to high quality health care. As future health care professionals, they strive to understand the social determinants of health, the principles of primary health care, and the importance of socially responsive health promotion. SEARCH’s vision is based on local priorities, as determined through extensive communication with community groups and health professionals. SEARCH provides an invaluable and sustainable link between students, health care professionals, community based organizations, the University of Regina, SaskPolytechnic, the University of Saskatchewan, and the community. Students benefit by gaining practical experience in an interdisciplinary setting and through exposure to unique clinical circumstances. The community has access to an after hours, holistic approach to primary health care delivery. Within this mutually beneficial environment, opportunities exist to diminish barriers to health care, improve community relations, and make Regina a healthier place for all.