Here at the University of Mississippi School of Medicine the context of the state is informing our decisions for the student educational program. The hospital serves as a statewide referral center for complex care and provides primary care for the expanded Jackson metro area. The safety of our patients is a priority. As elsewhere, our physicians are busy clinicians and engaged educators. This situation is straining both sides. In addition last week was spring break with a number of people traveling. We made the decision on Sunday to pause the entire educational program while we assess our options for delivery of the educational program to achieve all learning objectives. It allows us time to determine the impact of spring break travel and the impact of COVID19 cases on the clinical environment. It allows our students time to focus on their families and contribute in other ways to the evolving health crisis such as helping to replenish our blood supply. We are currently in the planning phase for worse and best scenarios as we work towards the return of the active delivery of the educational program. It is wonderful to see that this approach is not outside of the normal and I am grateful for all of the comments shared here. It is really helpful. Thanks!
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Loretta Jackson-Williams
Vice Dean for Medical Education
University of Mississippi School of Medicine
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