Student HandBook 2010-2011

Student Handbook2010-2011

The FIU Medical Student Oath(patterned after the Oath of Hippocrates)

I do solemnly swear by that which I hold most sacred;

That I will be loyal to the profession of medicine and just and generous to all;

That I will lead my life and practice my art in uprightness and honor;

That into whatsoever house I shall enter, it shall be for the good of the sick to the utmost of my power. I shall hold

myself aloof from wrong, from corruption, and from the temptation of others to vice;

That I will exercise my art solely for the cure of my patients, and will give no drug, perform no operation for a criminal

purpose, even if solicited, and far less suggest such a thing.

That whatsoever I shall see or hear of the lives of others which is not fitting to be spoken, I will keep inviolably secret.

These things I do promise, and in proportion as I am faithful to this, my oath, may happiness and good repute be ever

mine – the opposite if I shall be forsworn.

tHe Herbert WertHeim College of mediCine

STudenT Handbook

Florida International University

2010-2011

Information current as of January 21, 2011.

Published by: FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine Office of Student Affairs

Sanford Markham, M.D. – Executive Associate Dean for Student Affairs

editors:

Robert Dollinger, M.D., Assistant Dean for Student Affairs, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine

Jody Lehman, J.D., Deputy General Counsel, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine

Elizabeth Marston, J.D., Associate General Counsel, FIU Office of the General Counsel

Sandra Allen, Director of Accreditation, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine

Handbook design and Production team:

Robert Dollinger, M.D., Office of Student Affairs, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine

Aileen Solá-Trautmann, Senior Designer, FIU Publications

Kristina Sanchez, Production Manager, FIU Publications

Hope Herman, Senior Account Manager, FIU Publications

THe FIu HerberT WerTHeIm College oF medICIne

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TABLE OF CONTENTSintroduction Welcome to Florida International University ..........................................................9 Preamble ...........................................................................................................10 Dean’s Message.................................................................................................11 Welcome from the Office of Student Affairs ........................................................12 Florida International University: A Brief History ....................................................13 History of the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine ..........................................15 College of Medicine Mission & Goals ..................................................................20 Definitions ..........................................................................................................21 Facilities ............................................................................................................23 Guidelines for use of HWCOM Facilities .............................................................25

i. office of Student affairs (oSa) OSA General Services

OSA Mission, Vision, Values ........................................................................29 Organization and Activities ..........................................................................30 Admission to the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine .............................34 Counseling Services

Personal Counseling: The Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine Counseling & Wellness Center .....................................................................34 Provision of Psychological Counseling & Medical Care to Medical Students ...38 Financial Counseling; Financial Aid ..............................................................38 Tuition Refund Policy ...................................................................................41 Faculty Mentors ...........................................................................................42 Academic Advising ......................................................................................42 Career Counseling .......................................................................................45

ii. academic affairs (oaa) and Clinical affairs (oCa) Curriculum Overview ..........................................................................................52 Requirements for the Doctorate of Medicine Degree ..........................................59 The Green Family Foundation NeighborhoodHELP™ Program ...........................59 Affiliate Clinical Sites ..........................................................................................62 Jackson Health System......................................................................................63 Miami Children’s Hospital ...................................................................................63 Mount Sinai Medical Center ...............................................................................64 Mercy Hospital ...................................................................................................64 Baptist Health South Florida ...............................................................................65

2010-2011Student Handbook

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Cleveland Clinic Florida .....................................................................................65

Memorial Healthcare ..........................................................................................66

Broward Health ..................................................................................................66

Leon Medical Centers ........................................................................................66

Michael S. Gordon Center for Research in Medical Education ............................67

iii. Policies and regulations A. Matriculation Policies

Health History and Medical Examination .....................................................73

Immunization Policy .....................................................................................74

Health Insurance .........................................................................................79

Disability Insurance ......................................................................................81

Criminal Background Checks ......................................................................81

B. Diversity

Diversity Policy ............................................................................................81

C. Technical Standards

Technical Standards ...................................................................................84

Students with Disabilities .............................................................................86

D. Accreditation

Accreditation Statement ..............................................................................89

E. Academic Policies

Teacher – Learner Relationship ....................................................................90

F. Attendance

Attendance Policy .......................................................................................93

Religious Observance ..................................................................................94

Medical Excuse ...........................................................................................94

Leave of Absence Policy .............................................................................95

G. Medical Student Assessment Process Summary

Professionalism .........................................................................................101

Honor Code ..............................................................................................102

The Honor Council ...................................................................................106

Confidentiality ............................................................................................115

Grades and Evaluation of Academic/Professional Performance ................116

Policy on United States Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE) ........................121

Medical Student Evaluation and Promotion Process ..................................121

Appeals Process .......................................................................................128

Grievances and Grievance Procedure ........................................................130


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H. Professional Dress Guidelines

Professional Dress Guidelines ....................................................................136

I. Sexual Battery and Harassment

Sexual Battery ...........................................................................................139

Sexual Harassment ...................................................................................140

J. Non-Discrimination Policy

Non-Discrimination Policy and Discrimination Complaint Procedures .........143

K. Health Policies

1. Alcohol ..................................................................................................148

2. Tobacco and Smoke-free Campus ........................................................149

3. Drug-free School and Workplace ...........................................................150

4. Communicable Diseases .......................................................................159

5. HIV/AIDS ..............................................................................................160

6.Bio-safety, Blood-borne Pathogens ........................................................163

7. Needlestick injury ..................................................................................173

8. Worker’s Compensation ........................................................................174

L. Technology Policies

Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine Technology Policies .......................174

M. Medical Student Records

Policy on Medical Student Records ...........................................................177

N. Medical Library

Medical Library ..........................................................................................184

O. FIU Emergency Policies

Emergency Policy ......................................................................................189

P. Miscellaneous Policies

Medical Student Employment ....................................................................193

Jury Duty ...................................................................................................194

Media Requests for Student Interviews......................................................195

Lost and Found .........................................................................................195

iV. Student activities & fiu Services A. Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine Student Activities

New Student Orientation ..........................................................................197

White Coat Ceremony ...............................................................................198

Panther Communities ................................................................................198

Medical Student Organizations ..................................................................203

Service Learning ........................................................................................208

Noncredit Clinical Activities ........................................................................211

IntroductionTHe HerberT WerTHeIm College oF medICIne STudenT Handbook 2010-2011


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IntroductionWelcome to Florida International University

State universities in Florida have been charged with the responsibility of providing students

with an educational experience which prepares them to participate in a rapidly changing

world and to do so with a commitment to the highest moral and ethical standards. The

University Standards of Student Conduct addresses three major areas of moral integrity.

These include academic honesty, respect for the law, and respect for people. The latter,

respect for people, is somewhat intangible in nature, and yet the most important, because

it governs one’s response to the first two.

Students should take responsibility to serve as leaders in promoting compassion for

others and challenging prejudice against all individuals and groups, whether due to race,

gender, age, marital status, religion, nationality, political persuasion, sexual orientation,

handicap, or disease.

Honesty and integrity in academic achievement, personal growth and development are

encouraged by the University through the publication of these standards and statements

of desired values and attitudes. The full text of the University Standards of Student

Conduct and several related statements of policies and procedures appear in the FIU

Student Handbook. All students are encouraged to read these statements and integrate

them into their daily lives.

Being part of the University community provides many opportunities to exercise individual

rights, but also requires the assumption of responsibilities. Enjoy your university and

medical school experience and maintain it at a level of personal integrity and caring, which

will reflect well upon you and the university you have elected to attend.

We wish you the very best of success.

—The Faculty and Staff of FIU and The Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine

2010-2011


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IntroductionPreamble

The Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine Student Handbook

is a publication developed and maintained by the Office of Student Affairs with collaborative

input from faculty, administrators, and staff from the College and Florida International

University (FIU). The policies and procedures herein apply to all medical students. The

information contained in the Handbook should serve as a guide throughout their academic,

clinical, and extracurricular life as a member of the FIU community and specifically as a

medical student. Certain policies and procedures also apply to faculty and staff members

who are employed or provide volunteer services to FIU and the College. Medical students

must also abide by the Student Handbook policies and guidelines whenever participating in

College-sponsored programs that are located at off campus sites.

The basic premise for these student guidelines is the understanding that individual rights

are also accompanied by responsibilities. By becoming an enrolled medical student in the

Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, students also become members of the larger FIU

community and thus, acquire rights in, as well as responsibilities to, the entire University

community. Medical students are required to abide by all University regulations as well as

the FIU Student Handbook, published annually by the Student Government Association

under the Department of Campus Life in the Division of Student Affairs.

All policies and procedures described in this Student Handbook and the FIU Student

Handbook are subject to revision at any time and without notice. Such revisions are

applicable to all medical students. The policies and information contained were last

updated July 2010. Students will be informed when there are significant changes and

updates to the contents of the Student Handbook via email and class announcements at

the time such revisions are posted online. Updates are expected periodically throughout

the academic year and all students are urged to review the most recent information on the

HWCOM website at http://medicine.fiu.edu as soon as they are announced.

Questions regarding the content of the Student Handbook should be directed to the Office

of Student Affairs at (305) 348-0644.


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Dean’s Message

The FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine stands alone among

U.S. medical schools. We have seized the opportunity afforded to

us in building a program from scratch to design a curriculum that

is infused with opportunities to learn and to help. Our innovative

Green Family Foundation NeighborhoodHELP™ (Health Education

Learning Program), which runs through the entire four years of

medical school, places medical students in teams with students of

other disciplines. They will work together to address real medical,

social and ethical issues experienced by disadvantaged families in South Florida.

This program – indeed the entire College – is as much about learning as it is about giving

back to the community, of which FIU is such an integral part. It is my hope that our

medical students help save lives and make important contributions to the improvement

of the quality of life throughout South Florida, especially the region’s poorest areas.

Further, through our partnerships with Jackson Health System, Mount Sinai Medical

Center, Miami Children’s Hospital, Mercy Hospital, Baptist Health South Florida,

Cleveland Clinic Florida, Broward Health, Memorial Healthcare, the Florida Department

of Health, the Leon Medical Centers, and other community-based health providers, FIU

medical students will be in contact with our community on a daily basis.

The Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine team and the leadership of Florida

International University are working together to create a model that will contribute to

the improvement of the quality and access to health care in South Florida and ultimately

throughout the nation. To make this vision a reality, the College is dedicated to providing

its students with an innovative and challenging curriculum taught by some of the best

clinical and research faculty in the community and the nation.

John Rock, M.D.

Founding Dean, FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine

Senior Vice President for Medical Affairs


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IntroductionWelcome from the Office of Student Affairs

The Office of Student Affairs at the Herbert Wertheim College of

Medicine is designed to be supportive of medical students’ needs

throughout their medical education program. This support involves

most of the day-to-day events and activities, including scheduling

of classes and extracurricular activities, development and support

of student organizations, maintenance of your transcript and

recording grades, academic counseling, personal counseling,

financial counseling, assignment of mentors and tutors, oversight

of the Panther Learning Communities, information on residencies and fellowships,

information on the USMLE and other national examinations, completion of various

academic forms and letters of recommendation, as well as provision of the Medical

Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE).

The faculty and staff of the Office of Student Affairs have been carefully selected with

appointments given to professionals with a strong interest in medical student advocacy.

Our offices generally are open and available to all medical students from 8:00 AM to 5:00

PM during published academic days. Additionally, a Dean or Director is on call 24/7 to

address individual problems or requests of an urgent or emergent nature.

Our combined goal is to make each medical student’s experience at FIU an extremely

productive and rewarding one by helping each student achieve to their maximum ability

and potential. Additionally, it is our goal to help each student select the area of medicine

of greatest interest and potential and to be selected for residency training in the area of

their choice.

On behalf of the entire faculty and staff of the Office of Student Affairs, I would like to

welcome you to FIU and to the beginning of a new chapter in your life. We are here to

help you succeed and welcome your visits.

Sanford M. Markham, M.D.

Executive Associate Dean for Student Affairs


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Florida International University: A Brief History

Florida International University was chartered in 1965 and opened for classes in 1972

with 5,667 students, the largest opening day enrollment in U.S. collegiate history. Today

it has more than 38,000 students, 1,000 full-time faculty and almost 135,000 alumni. FIU

is one of the 25 largest universities in the nation, based on enrollment. FIU ranked first

in the nation among four-year colleges for awarding bachelor’s and master’s degrees to

Hispanic students. Fifty-six percent of the students are female and approximately 35,000

are residents of Florida. FIU’s dynamic student body reflects the vibrant diversity of South

Florida: 59% Hispanic; 17% White Non-Hispanic; 13% Black; 4% Asian or Pacific Islander

and 7% other minority groups.

FIU has two campuses, the 344-acre Modesto A. Maidique Campus (formerly known as

the University Park Campus) in western Miami-Dade County, and the 200-acre Biscayne

Bay Campus in northeast Miami-Dade County. The University also has an academic site in

Broward County, the FIU Broward Pines Center in Pembroke Pines. The University offers

more than 200 bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs in its colleges and schools:

College of Architecture and the Arts; School of Music; College of Arts and Sciences;

College of Business Administration; School of Accounting; College of Education; College of

Engineering and Computing; School of Computing and Information Sciences; the Honors


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Introduction

College; College of Law; Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine; College of Nursing and

Health Sciences; School of Hospitality and Tourism Management; School of Journalism and

Mass Communication; and the Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work.

With more than 135,000 alumni, Golden Panthers constitute the fastest growing university

alumni group in Miami-Dade County. FIU confers approximately half of all degrees now

awarded by universities in Miami-Dade County.

In 1984, the University received authority to begin offering degree programs at the doctoral

level; these programs received Level IV accreditation from the Southern Association of

Colleges and Schools (SACS) in 1986. In 1994, the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement

of Teaching classified FIU as a Doctoral I University. In 2000, the Carnegie Foundation

reclassified the University as a Carnegie Doctoral/Research Universities- Extensive.

In August 2009, the FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, the only public medical

school in South Florida, enrolled its first class of future physicians providing another

way for the University to provide innovative research, professional education, and public

service to improve the quality of life in the South Florida community. The University

contributes to improving the South Florida community through the creation of jobs, and

by providing higher education and community service with impressive academic and

research environments that power the region’s economic development. The vision of FIU

to become one of the top 15 public, urban, research universities in the United States

is driven by the institution’s commitment to quality education and community service

designed to improve the quality and access to health care to the culturally diverse South

Florida community that FIU calls home.


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History of the FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine:

In the 1970s, when Florida International University (FIU)

opened, Florida was the tenth most populous state. By

2000, it had jumped to fourth. The increase in Florida’s

population has brought with it an increase in demand for

services, including education and healthcare. But medical

education in Florida has lagged behind demand. In the mid-

1990s, Florida universities graduated only 500 medical

doctors annually, which accounted for only 20 percent

of the new physicians licensed in the state each year.

Meanwhile, public health issues including HIV infection

and medical care for the indigent were in the national

spotlight. Keenly aware of an impending healthcare crisis,

in 2000 Florida International University issued a ten-year Millennium Strategic Plan, with

health education, medical education, and biomedical research among its top priorities.

In September 2005, FIU submitted a Proposal for a Program in Allopathic Medicine to

the university’s Board of Trustees. The proposal was to leverage FIU’s existing strengths

in health-related fields to establish a college of medicine that would educate the type of

physicians needed by the people of the South Florida region. The new Doctor of Medicine

degree program would help FIU achieve the goals of its strategic plan and position it to

become one of the nation’s top urban research institutions. The proposal was approved by

the FIU Board of Trustees in September 2005.

The FIU proposal was ahead of the national curve. In February 2006 the Association of

American Medical Colleges issued a call to expand the number of U.S. medical school

graduates by 30 percent by 2015, through enrollment increases and the establishment of up

to eight new schools. On March 23, 2006, FIU’s plan for a college of medicine was approved

by the Board of Governors of the State University System of Florida. In May 2006, the Florida

International University College of Medicine was authorized by Florida Statute 1004.385.

In Fall 2006, Florida International University selected John A. Rock, MD, former Chancellor of

Health Sciences at Louisiana State University, as Founding Dean and Senior Vice President

for Medical Affairs in the new FIU College of Medicine. Dean Rock recruited three prestigious

executive associate deans to lead offices of Academic Affairs, Clinical Affairs, and Student

Affairs in the new college. A College of Medicine Implementation Team (COMIT), comprising key

FIU administrators and staff, was tasked with developing the college’s operational infrastructure.


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IntroductionWith a plan to forge public-private partnerships with local hospitals and clinics, the newly

convened College of Medicine Curriculum Committee developed a truly novel twenty-first

century medical education curriculum. In addition to the traditional basic science and

clinical education, the FIU MD program includes: (1) a four-year integration of basic and

medical science with clinical practice; (2) a formal curriculum in professional development;

(3) a required research component; and (4) a service learning Medicine and Society

program, which seeks to inculcate cultural competence by immersing medical students

in the community as members of interdisciplinary teams with nursing and social work

students. Each student team is assigned a household to follow longitudinally throughout

their entire four-year educational experience.

In 2007, the College of Medicine began to prepare for accreditation by the Liaison

Committee for Medical Education (LCME). The process involved hiring faculty, generating

a medical education database, conducting a self-study, and hosting a site visit by LCME

representatives. Upon determining that the FIU MD program meets the standards outlined

in Guidelines for New and Developing Medical Schools, the LCME granted preliminary

accreditation to the Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine

in February 2008.

Initial funding for the FIU College of Medicine included over $5 million and $11 million in

appropriations from the State of Florida in 2008 and 2009, respectively. On June 12, 2009,

longtime FIU benefactor Dr. Herbert Wertheim donated $20 million—the largest donation

in FIU history—in support of the FIU College of Medicine. The generous philanthropic

support from Dr. Wertheim and the Dr. Herbert and Nicole Wertheim Family Foundation

will establish endowments for medical education and research and provide scholarships

for students pursuing the doctor of medicine degree. In June 2009, in recognition of Dr.

Wertheim’s generous contributions, the FIU Board of Trustees approved the naming of the

College of Medicine as the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine (HWCOM) at Florida

International University.

Endowments and state appropriations provided adequate funding for HWCOM during its

planning and start-up phases. As more students are admitted and the clinical and research

enterprises are established, HWCOM anticipates additional revenue from tuition, state

appropriation for enrollment, clinical operations, increases in gifts and endowments, and

direct returns from sponsored research.


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To expose HWCOM students to diverse clinical experiences during their medical education,

HWCOM has established affiliation agreements with various hospitals and clinics in the region.

To date, HWCOM has signed agreements with Baptist Health South Florida, Broward Health,

Cleveland Clinic, Jackson Health System, Leon Medical Centers, Memorial Healthcare, Mercy

Hospital, Miami Children’s Hospital, and Mount Sinai Medical Center.

The emphasis of the new medical school is to recruit and educate larger numbers of

ethnically and culturally diverse students to serve the growing elderly patient population

and to address physician shortages of culturally competent, ethnically diverse physicians in

the area. The medical school will provide quality, affordable medical education and educate

physicians who are culturally sensitive to South Florida’s diverse demographics. The new

medical school will help advance South Florida’s health care community by facilitating

improved access to first-rate medical care among our medically underserved populations

and lead an economic impact that will eventually reach more than $1 billion each year.

the birth of South florida’s first public medical school: A timeline of events leading up to the admittance of the first class

1996 The University develops a ten-year strategic plan, making health

education, medical education and biomedical research FIU’s

top priorities.

1999 FIU establishes a College of Health and Urban Affairs, which contains

a School of Public Health and a School of Nursing, and invests in the

growth of its biomedical research and biomedical engineering programs.

2000 The FIU Medical School Planning Task Force commences a feasibility

study and implementation report.

2005 FIU Board of Trustees approves university plan for medical school.

This vote coincides with AAMC’s call to increase number of medical

school graduates through enrollment increases and up to eight new

medical schools.

march 2006 Florida Board of Governors and Florida Legislature approve creation of

FIU’s College of Medicine.


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november 2006 University selects John Rock, M.D., M.P.H., as Senior Vice President for

Medical Affairs and the Founding Dean of the College of Medicine.

august 2007 North Dade Medical Foundation makes a gift of $5 million to the College of

Medicine. With state matching funds, it becomes a $10 million endowment

for scholarships and the medical school’s first endowed chairs.

September 2007 FIU and the Florida Department of Health sign an agreement to relocate

the department’s Miami-Dade headquarters to FIU.

november 2007 LCME initial site visit takes place.

december 2007 Miami-Dade County commissioners approve $10 million for an

ambulatory care facility at FIU’s College of Medicine.

february 2008 FIU College of Medicine receives preliminary accreditation from LCME

and begins recruiting inaugural class.

may 28, 2008 College of Medicine receives a $10 million gift from Benjamin León Jr.,

founder of Leon Medical Centers, to establish the Benjamin León, Jr.

Family Center for Geriatric Research and Education. This is among the

largest gifts ever made by a Cuban-American family to a U.S. university,

the largest made to FIU, and the first to name a center of the College

of Medicine. The gift is eligible for matching dollars under the State of

Florida Major Gifts Trust Fund, increasing its total impact to $20 million.

June 2008 First applications for the inaugural class are received.

december 2008 FIU College of Medicine receives a total of 3,332 applications for the

inaugural class of 43 students.

June 12, 2009 Dr. Herbert Wertheim, internationally renowned optometrist, inventor,

and philanthropist, donates $20 million to the College of Medicine, the

largest donation in the history of FIU. This gift is also eligible for matching

dollars under the State of Florida Major Gifts Trust Fund, increasing its

total impact to $40 million. The donation is transformational and sets

the foundation for future philanthropic support of the Herbert Wertheim

College of Medicine at FIU.

Introduction


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June 24, 2009 The Green Family Foundation, a private, non-profit organization that

supports social programs dedicated to improving community health

and elevating universal socio-economic conditions, donates $10 million,

including state match, to fund a community medicine program, the

Green Family Foundation Medicine & Society Program Endowment, that

will become a cornerstone of Florida International University’s Herbert

Wertheim College of Medicine.

august 3, 2009 First day of orientation for the inaugural class.

august 7, 2009 White Coat Ceremony for the inaugural class.

august 10, 2009 First day of classes for the inaugural class.

august 2, 2010 First day of orientation for class of 2014.

august 9, 2010 First day of classes for class of 2014.


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IntroductionHerbert Wertheim College of Medicine Mission and Goals

The mission of the Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine

(HWCOM) is to lead the next generation of medical education and continually improve

the quality of healthcare available to the South Florida community. The HWCOM will

accomplish its mission by:

• TrainingphysicianstoserveSouthFlorida’sdiversepopulationthroughapatient-

centered curriculum instilling cultural competence,

• ProvidingFloridastudentsgreateraccesstomedicaleducation,and

• Fosteringresearchtodiscoverandadvancemedicallyrelevantknowledge.

goals include:

1. Leverage the existence of our medical school to enhance the overall quality of and

access to healthcare in South Florida.

2. Graduate culturally competent medical students who will be able to provide

exemplary care to the diverse populations in Florida and the nation.

3. Utilize the presence of medical students working in interdisciplinary teams of health

care professionals to improve health awareness and healthcare indices in the

communities served.

4. Assist area hospitals in developing residency positions to ameliorate South Florida’s

current and anticipated physician shortages.

5. Initiate and pursue international research and academic collaboration that will

contribute to the economic development of the community, region, state, and nation.

5. Engage the local community through mutually beneficial outreach and partnership

programs.

The educational mission of the Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College

of Medicine is to provide a program of study for the Doctor of Medicine degree enabling

graduates to pursue a wide spectrum of professional careers in medicine. Careers in

private practice, academic medicine, public service, leadership in health care and public

policy are considered in the design of the educational program. A special emphasis of

the FIU curriculum is a focus on community health in the metropolitan region and the

education of physicians for medical practice in South Florida. This emphasis includes the

study of culture and society in the region in relation to personal and community health.


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Definitions

Below is a list of definitions that will be used throughout the Florida International University

Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine Student Handbook.

AAMC The term “AAMC” refers to the Association of American Medical Colleges.

ACGME The term “ACGME” refers to the Accreditation Council for Graduate

Medical Education.

CDC The term “CDC” refers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

COLLEGE This refers to the FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine.

DRC The term “DRC” refers to the Disability Resource Center.

EAD The term “EAD” refers to Executive Associate Dean.

ERAS The term “ERAS” refers to the Electronic Residency Application Service,

which is an AAMC service that transmits residency applications, personal

statements, letters of recommendation, Medical Student Performance

Evaluations or Dean’s letters, medical school transcripts, board exam

scores, and other supporting credentials from applicants and medical

schools to the fellowship and residency programs the prospective student

selects using the Internet.

Faculty The term “Faculty” refers to the members of the faculty of the Florida

International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine.

FAFSA The term “FAFSA” refers to Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

FERPA The term “FERPA” refers to the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act as

amended from time to time.

Grievance Committee The term “Grievance Committee” refers to the Student

Grievance Committee for the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine.

HIPAA The term “HIPAA” refers to Health Insurance Portability and Accountability

Act of 1996 as amended from time to time.

HIV The term “HIV” refers to human immunodeficiency virus.

LCME The term “LCME” refers to the Liaison Committee on Medical Education.


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IntroductionMedical Student The term “medical student” refers to any person who is registered

as a medical student within the FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine.

Persons who withdraw from the College or persons who are not officially

enrolled at the College for a particular term but who have a continuing

relationship with the College, and persons who have been notified of their

acceptance for admission are considered “students” as well as persons who

are living in the residence halls but are not enrolled at the University.

• M1=Firstyearmedicalstudent

• M2=Secondyearmedicalstudent

• M3=Thirdyearmedicalstudent

• M4=Fourthyearmedicalstudent

Member of the University community The term “member of the University

community” refers to any person who is a student, faculty member, official,

or any other person employed by the University.

MSEPC Medical Student Evaluation and Promotion Committee.

Notice The term “notice” when used in the context of delivering a notification to

someone, refers to notification in writing by hand-delivery or other means

providing evidence of receipt.

OSA The term “OSA” refers to the Office of Student Affairs.

OSHA The term “OSHA” refers to the Occupational Health and Safety

Administration.

UHS The term “UHS” refers to the FIU University Health Services.

University or FIU The terms “University” and “FIU” refer to Florida International

University, including all of its branch campuses and sites.

USMLE The term “USMLE” refers to the United States Medical Licensing

Examination.


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Facilities

Medical students have dedicated places within the FIU Herbert Wertheim College of

Medicine facility to relax and socialize while on campus. This space is truly a medical

student’s “home away from home.”

dedicated medical Student Study Space

Study space dedicated for the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine (HWCOM) students

is conveniently located on the sixth floor of the Academic Health Center 2 (AHC2, formerly

Health and Life Sciences II) building on Modesto A. Maidique Campus. In addition to the

dedicated classrooms, there are ten (10) small group rooms of varying sizes designed

to accommodate smaller groups of students from eight to as many as twenty students

at a time. The small group rooms are available to students 24/7 with access controlled

by magnetic stripe of their FIU photo ID card. All rooms have a wall-mounted HDTV and

wireless internet access. The four (4) Panther Community spaces are equipped with a

lounge, a TV area, a kitchen area, wireless internet access, and individual lockers and

mailboxes for each student.

HWCOM has a dedicated space on the third floor of the Steven and Dorothea Green

Library reserved only for medical students. The “Medical Library” consists of approximately

7,000 square feet of dedicated space, and houses all of the library services for HWCOM,

including access to electronic information systems, physical publications and materials,

printing and copying equipment, a small group room, a lounge space with chairs and

sofas, and private study carrels.

Shared Study Space

Study space can be found in many areas throughout the campus. All the buildings are within

walking distance and many of the buildings have quiet areas where students may study

alone or in groups. Study space is available in the Green Library, which is an eight-story

facility that was built in 1975 and renovated and expanded in 1998 to include the latest in

library technology. The Green Library provides extended hours of operation to allow medical

students access to the study space and computers on weekends, holidays and between

terms. Additional study space can be found in small lounge areas located on each floor of

the AHC1 and AHC2 buildings (formerly Health and Life Sciences [HLS] buildings I and II).

lounge and relaxation areas

Lounge space for medical students is located on the third floor of the Academic Health

Center 2 building within the Panther Community suites. Medical students may access


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Introductiontheir Panther Community suite by swiping their FIU photo ID card. The lounges within

the Panther Community suites provide a comfortable setting for students to relax. Each

Panther Community lounge is equipped with chairs, tables, wireless Internet access, HDTV

with cable, and a convenient kitchen area with a refrigerator, microwave, sink, and counter

and cabinet space for additional small appliances and cooking supplies. Each student

has a personal mailbox to receive information, such as pamphlets and flyers describing

upcoming programs and activities. The Panther Community suites also are equipped with

320 lockers to accommodate the personal and secure storage needs for each medical

student. Lounge space in the Panther Community suites is adequate to support student

enrollment through 2012 and was designed for expansion to accommodate a total

enrollment of up to 480 students.

Academic Health Center 2 has 24/7 security on call through the FIU Public Safety

department and is patrolled by a full-time dedicated security guard paid by the HWCOM and

reporting to the FIU Public Safety. Additional police officers and public safety technicians

are available to personally escort students to areas on the Modesto A. Maidique campus

24/7 by calling 7-2626 at least ten minutes in advance.

Medical students may receive personal counseling and review various computerized

wellness programs on stress management, meditation, biofeedback, and other programs

at the dedicated HWCOM Counseling and Wellness Center, located in a private confidential

office suite (room 340B) located on the third floor of the Green Library.

The Graham Center (GC), located in close proximity to HWCOM facilities, serves as the

main lounging center for the university. The GC, referred to as the FIU “living room” has

over 8,000 square feet of student lounge space and over 4,000 square feet of recreational

space offering unique services and amenities to all students. The GC is a place for

students to relax, meet friends, and enjoy a variety of indoor games, including billiards and

table tennis, board games (chess, backgammon, checkers, dominoes), and video games.

The Porter Davis Game Room sponsors teams that represent FIU in regional and national

indoor recreational games competitions of the Association of College Unions International.

GC is also home to a full-service cafeteria and over thirteen dining options including

national brands such as Einstein Bros Bagels, Pollo Tropical, Subway, Bustello Café,

Jamba Juice, Java City, Sushi Maki, Burger King, and Chili’s Too restaurant. A Barnes and

Noble Café is located on the second floor of the university bookstore and Starbucks is

located in the lobby of the Green Library.


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In 2010, FIU opened a new mixed-use parking garage on the north side of campus with

2,000 parking spaces and three classrooms accommodating up to 360 students. The

ground floor of the seven-story building, known as PG5 Market Station, features a dining

hub with indoor and outdoor seating. Some of the vendors include Chick-fil-A, Moe’s,

Papa John’s, Dunkin’ Donuts and Salad Creations. The facility also has a CyberCafé with

wi-fi and televisions.

The FIU Recreation Center is located west of the University Health Services Complex and

is within easy walking distance from any location on campus. The 50,000+ square-foot

Recreation Center opened in 2006 and features over 2,300 square feet of lounge areas;

a 2-court gym for intramural and recreational basketball, volleyball, and badminton; a

12,500-square-foot fitness area equipped with free weights, resistance machines, and

cardio equipment; 2 multipurpose rooms for group fitness classes; large men’s and

women’s locker rooms (each with over 200 lockers); and a sidewalk café. The Recreation

Center offers a diverse schedule of over 30 fitness classes each week, Body Composition

Assessments, and a Pro Shop that offers towel and laundry service, equipment checkout,

and retail sales of energy drinks/bars, fitness accessories, and locker room sundries. A

swimming pool located on the west side of campus is available to all FIU students.

Guidelines for Use of HWCOM Facilities

To ensure that everyone’s personal, social, and safety needs are met in a fair manner, the

following guidelines have been established.

lockers Personal lockers located in the Panther Community Suites provide storage space for

students to store their laptops, medical equipment, white coats, and other items. Students

are required to purchase their own locks to appropriately secure their valuables and for

periodically cleaning out the locker. Lockers must be cleaned out on or before the last

day of classes. Any items left in lockers after the last day of classes will be discarded. In

addition, all inpatient clinical sites are equipped with lockers for HWCOM use.

mail and student mailboxesStudents are assigned a mailbox and are required to periodically check and clear their

mailboxes to ensure timely receipt of College and University-related mail. Any items left in

mailboxes after the last day of classes in each period will be discarded.


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Introduction Common amenitiesThe use of television, microwave, furniture, games, videos, books, journals, photo copier,

phone/fax machine, vending machines, and other community amenities will be mutually

decided on a first-come, first-served basis. When conflicts arise, it is expected that the

competing interests communicate and come up with a compromise or consensus. If an

agreement still cannot be reached, this issue should be taken to the Office of Student Affairs.

refrigeratorsRefrigerators are provided for short-term storage of perishable foods. Non-perishable

foods should not be stored in the refrigerators. To ensure sufficient space for all medical

students, a student may only store food of a quantity sufficient for a two day period of

time; this includes frozen food. All food must be removed on a weekly basis; all food

remaining in the refrigerators after 6:00 PM on Fridays may be discarded.

electricityAll lights and electrical appliances must be turned off by the last person leaving the Panther

Community areas.

generalThe HWCOM has hired a dedicated security officer to patrol the AHC 2 (formerly HLS II)

building and provide additional safety support. This officer has immediate phone access to

the FIU Public Safety police officers and will respond to emergencies or security violations

anywhere within the building. As the lounge is designed for group activities, including study

groups, students who prefer a quiet place to study should go to the HWCOM Library. A

student is permitted to invite no more than two guests at a time to visit and utilize the

amenities of the lounge; all guests must be accompanied by an FIU medical student unless

prior permission is obtained from the OSA. The dedicated HWCOM security guard may

request students to present a HWCOM photo ID for access to lounge and study areas for

the student and his/her guests.

As the College continues its planned growth, plans are to ensure all of our medical students

have access to comfortable and secure settings, including expanded lounge and study

spaces. The future FIU Academic Health Sciences Center will also continue its growth to

enhance its educational, research, and community service mission, with additional buildings

planned, including a new Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine building, a new parking

garage opening in the Fall of 2010, a dedicated classroom building for the sciences, and a

proposed Miami-Dade Department of Health research and ambulatory care facility.


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Notes

Student AffairsTHe HerberT WerTHeIm College oF medICIne STudenT Handbook 2010-2011

Student Affairs THe FIu HerberT WerTHeIm College oF medICIne

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Office of Student Affairs

missionThe Office of Student Affairs at the Florida International University Herbert Wertheim

College of Medicine strives to recruit, admit, educate, counsel, advise, and professionally

transform a diverse group of students into culturally competent, empathic, and ethical

physicians. The OSA works in concert with the academic mission of the College by

fostering medical students’ intellectual, physical, emotional, spiritual, and social growth.

We promote student-centered educational and leadership opportunities to enhance

communication, critical thinking, ethical judgment, problem-solving, and professional

skills. The OSA facilitates altruism, mentoring, volunteerism, and community service

outreach while providing developmental programs and counseling services designed to

promote optimal learning. In addition to academic support, the OSA will strive to enhance

students’ personal awareness and wellness while preparing them to become outstanding

medical professionals who provide patient-centered health care that is responsive to the

medical, social, and cultural needs of the community.

VisionThe Office of Student Affairs at the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine will become the

leader in promoting quality and professional support services and fostering innovative, state

of the art, and culturally competent medical student learning from admission to graduation.

Values• Integrityandhonesty

• Humandignity,compassion,andrespectforallwithoutdiscriminationorharassment

based on race, color, religion, age, disability, sex, national origin, marital status,

sexual orientation and veteran status

• Provisionofculturallycompetentandmultidisciplinaryservicesthatcomplementthe

academic mission of the University

• Professionalism that respects the rights, abilities, beliefs, and confidentiality of

students and patients

• Scholarship, wisdom, creativity, and innovation that foster best practices and

“outside the box” thinking

• Qualityandcontinualimprovementbasedonstudentfeedback

• Responsible, responsive, fair, honorable, and ethical decisions by students and

faculty/staff

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• Student-focusededucation

• Advocacyfordiseaseprevention

• Life-long learning and the scholarly advancement of the honorableprofessionof

medicine


organization & activitiesThe Office of Student Affairs provides programs and services for all medical students at

FIU from the time of recruitment to the time of commencement, and beyond. Activities

of the OSA include: recruitment of students; the admissions process; mentorship of

students; personal, academic, and financial counseling; medical student communities

providing educational and extracurricular activities, organizations, and student

leadership opportunities. The Office of Student Affairs features experienced faculty

and staff who are dedicated to the overall well-being of medical students. The OSA

provides learning opportunities outside of the formal classroom and clinical settings

that are designed to complement and enhance the overall educational experience.

Hours: 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Monday through Friday except on University holidays.

on-call: The three Deans and Directors in the OSA are also available on a rotational basis

for urgent student issues or situations at times when the Office is closed. for urgent

matters, students should call the after hours emergency phone line 305-348-0696

for assistance. Most activities in the Office of Student Affairs function in an “open-door”

manner so students may visit the office for help and support by the faculty and staff

without making appointments. Because the OSA is committed to medical student support

and many individual counseling and advising services are confidential, it is strongly

recommended that students make appointments in advance to ensure the availability

of the specific dean or director and to ensure sufficient time is allocated to appropriately

discuss the issue(s) to the student’s satisfaction.

Professional Staff Executive Associate Dean for Student Affairs

Responsible for student enrollment, including recruitment, admissions, and records, as

well as the areas of student support encompassing orientation, personal counseling,

financial counseling, academic counseling, student code of conduct, the Honor Code, as

well as the Panther Communities.


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Assistant Dean for Student Affairs: Admissions and Records

Responsible for the direction and oversight of medical student enrollment including

recruitment, the application process, interviews, admissions, and the student records

system. Participates in student activities, support services, counseling and mentoring of

medical students.

director of admissions and records: Responsible for the direction and

management of the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine’s recruitment,

interview and admissions process and of the medical student record system.

Serves as the Registrar for the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine,

responsible for maintenance of grades and transcripts, as well as records and

statistics related to applicants and matriculants.

associate director of admissions and records: Responsible for

collaborating with the Director of Admissions and Records to coordinate

the medical student recruitment, interview and admissions process and the

medical student record system. Assists in the maintenance of all records and

statistics related to applicants and matriculants.

Assistant Dean for Student Affairs: Counseling and Communities

Responsible for the following student support services: personal and psychological

counseling and wellness activities, financial aid, career counseling, preparation for

residency, as well as opportunities for medical student fellowship programs sponsored by

different medical institutions. The Assistant Dean also provides oversight of the student

learning communities and medical student organizations, which offer students a variety

of extracurricular opportunities to enhance leadership and professionalism through

educational, altruistic, spiritual, and social experiences both at the university and in the

community.

director of Counseling and Wellness: Responsible for providing confidential

psychological evaluations and consultations for students in individual and

group sessions; provides psycho-educational and wellness programs

on a variety of mental health topics, including stress management, time

management, depression, personality profiles, identifying cognitive strengths,

anger management, relationships, maintaining academic and social balance;

study skills, test-taking skills, enhancing self-esteem, leadership, and seminars

alerting the College community to the early-warning signs, recognition and

follow-up of disruptive or troubled students; and providing neuropsychological

evaluations designed to enhance academic performance and retention.


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director of financial aid: Responsible for the administration and coordination

of all financial aid programs, including financial aid and debt management

counseling and student assistance in obtaining financial aid resources.

faculty director of a Panther Community: Physician responsible for the

supervision of the service learning, educational, social, and cultural activities for

one of the four Panther Communities; serves as a student mentor and advisor,

as well as the liaison between students and the various academic and support

services available at the College, the University, and outside organizations.

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Admission to the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine

As part of the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine Office of Student Affairs, the Office of

Admissions and Records recruits, facilitates interviews, determines acceptance, enrolls,

and registers a diverse student body capable of pursuing a full range of opportunities

available to physicians through medical practice, service, education, and research.

Office of Student Affairs: Counseling Services

The Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine provides

all medical students with professional and comprehensive counseling services. The

counselors are College faculty and staff dedicated to providing professional and confidential

personal, psychological, financial, and academic counseling services. Students may be

self-referred or may be referred by family, friends, professors, staff, colleagues, or other

caring individuals.

The Office of Student Affairs provides counseling in four key areas that are critical to a

student’s academic and professional success:

(1) Personal Counseling

(2) Financial Counseling

(3) Academic Counseling

(4) Career Counseling

Personal Counseling: The Counseling and Wellness Center

The Counseling and Wellness Center, under the auspices of the Herbert Wertheim College

of Medicine (HWCOM) Office of Student Affairs, provides free, professional, and confidential

personal counseling services exclusively for HWCOM medical students. The Center provides

a full range of psychological and mental health services designed to support medical

student success through professional diagnosis, counseling, and life-skills coaching.

Services are designed to foster the academic potential of students by enhancing their

personal development as well as their psychosocial and emotional health. The treatment

philosophy of the Counseling and Wellness Center is strength focused, embracing the

values of individualism, empowerment, positivity, dignity and respect. The personal

counseling services offered by the Counseling and Wellness Center are professional and

strictly confidential.

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The Director of Counseling and Wellness is a licensed psychologist with board certification

in neuropsychopharmacology and specialized expertise in neuropsychology and the

diagnosis and therapy of a variety of student mental health concerns that could impact a

medical student’s educational success.

The Director has extensive leadership, teaching, administrative, and supervisory experience

in providing personal and group therapy at university counseling centers. Faculty and

staff members may consult with the Director on psychological or systemic issues that

may be affecting student success and learning ability. All clinical services provided to the

medical students maintain the highest standards with regard to ethical, competent, and

confidential care.

Some of the common complaints medical students typically address include: stress,

relationship problems, anxiety disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder,

attention deficit disorder, adjustment difficulties, perfectionism, substance abuse,

victimization, and simply dealing with being average academically. Professional services

include group workshops designed to promote mental health and enhance personal

skills and resiliency. Consultations and group workshops address the following topics:

stress management, burn-out, time management, depression and anxiety screening,

relationships, developing personal strengths, team building, communication skills,

personality assessment, student development, and wellness programs specifically designed

to promote medical student personal health and academic success. The Counseling and

Wellness Center also offers preventative and complementary health strategies designed

to enhance students’ academic performance. The “wellness” component of the Center

further enhances medical students’ sense of privacy, as it is unclear to others whether any

student who is at the Center is there to receive psychotherapy or one of the many other

health and wellness services offered at the Counseling and Wellness Center.

Modes of intervention include individual, group and couples counseling as well as

individual psychological and neuropsychological testing. Enrolled students may receive

short-term and solution-focused outpatient counseling and therapy during all phases

of their professional education and training. Counseling services and consultations are

provided free of charge to students.

By law, all patients must sign a written consent to release confidential information. Unless a

student signs a release of information, information about the student, including whether or

not they seek or participate in therapy, is not released to anyone except in accordance with

the law. If a student is referred for counseling as part of a remediation or disciplinary action,

the student must consent to release information to meet the terms of the agreement.


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In addition to the student support services provided by the Counseling and Wellness

Center, students may utilize the services provided by the FIU Counseling and Psychological

Services Center located in the University Health Services Complex on the Modesto A.

Maidique campus, a short walk from HWCOM. In cases of emergency after normal working

hours, students are urged to contact one of the three deans in the Office of Student Affairs

via the after hours emergency phone line (305-348-0696) for further instructions on where

to receive emergency medical care and crisis intervention.

A dedicated medical student counseling center is an innovative and highly valued new

student service. The Counseling and Wellness Center at the HWCOM provides services

that are extremely valued by the students as evidenced by the results of anonymous client

satisfaction surveys and the LCME student survey.

The Director of Counseling and Wellness has no involvement in the academic evaluation

or promotion of students. The psychologist(s) in this office is (are) available to work with

individuals and small groups of students with concerns related to academic improvement and

personal issues. Students wishing to enhance their current academic performance as well as

those experiencing academic difficulty are eligible to consult with the psychologist to receive

assistance in improving the quality and efficiency of study skills and time management as well

as better ways to cope with test or performance anxiety. Students experiencing issues of a

personal or psychological nature that might be interfering or have the potential to interfere

with academic progress, are also able to consult with the psychologist for short-term mental

health therapy to address issues related to anxiety, depression, family, or relationship issues;

grief or anger issues; and crisis intervention. In situations where a student requires ongoing

mental health care or needs diagnosis and/or treatment beyond the scope of services the

Counseling and Wellness Center can provide, a referral will be made to an appropriate health

professional, including a psychiatrist, within the University or local community.

Faculty, course directors, mentors, and deans are additionally charged with providing

counseling for students’ personal issues that do not require the services of a psychologist.

The FIU HWCOM understands that many physical and psychological health issues

confronting medical students may be of a sensitive nature and that a professional-patient

relationship between FIU faculty and students would be inconsistent with a teacher-

student relationship. FIU faculty members who provide health care services of a sensitive

nature to any medical student will have no involvement in the academic evaluation or

promotion of students.

office location: The Counseling and Wellness Center is located in a dedicated suite

of offices in the Green Library (entrance room 340B) located near the Medical Library.


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The Counseling and Wellness Center features a dedicated office for confidential personal

counseling staffed by the Director of Counseling and Wellness, a licensed board-certified

psychologist, and an office designed for testing, stress-management, and a series of

performance enhancing programs designed specifically to meet the needs of medical

students. The emphasis of the Counseling and Wellness Center is to foster success

through personal psychological intervention when necessary as well as general lifestyle

enhancement through individualized academic counseling and wellness programs.

Principles of Confidentiality at the Counseling and Wellness Center

What you say at the Counseling and Wellness Center stays there – with only certain exceptions!

All personal counseling sessions are confidential. Receiving medical care and counseling

are most effective if the patient or client can be direct and honest with a health care

professional without fear that personal information will be divulged. No personal information

is released outside the HWCOM Counseling and Wellness Center without your written

consent, except in situations such as those listed below. No notifications of counseling are

made in your official FIU or HWCOM records and the files of the Counseling and Wellness

Center are maintained independently from those of the FIU University Health Services

clinics and all other FIU and HWCOM departments. Client records are maintained under

strict security measures that are consistent with professional practices.

The laws of the State of Florida provide the following exceptions to the general policies of

confidentiality:

• Ifthetherapisthasknowledgethatachild,elder,orapersonwithdisabilityhasbeen

abused by the client

• Ifthetherapisthasknowledgeofintenttoharmhimself/herselforothers

• Ifthetherapistreceivesacourtordertoreleaseinformation

• Ifthetherapistconsultswithanotherclinicalorcounselingpsychologistormental

health counselor who works within the Center and who clinically has a reason to

know about the case.

Medical students seeking personal counseling should first call the Counseling

and Wellness Center at 305-348-1460 during normal business hours to make an

appointment. Whenever possible, special appointments will be made to accommodate

students’ schedules, as necessary. Urgent or crisis matters will be triaged immediately

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with on-campus psychological services or referral to services in the community. medical

students who experience an emergency during the evenings, weekends, and

holidays should call 305-348-0696, the after hours emergency phone number to

speak to the “on-call” dean in the office of Student affairs.

Students on campus who need emergency assistance should call the FIU Department

of Public Safety at 305-348-5911. Students who need emergency services and are not

currently on campus should call 911. Medical students can also contact the FIU Victim

Advocacy Center 24-hour hotline at 305-348-3000 for free and confidential services if the

student experiences actual or threatened violence.

Policy on the Provision of Psychological Counseling and Medical Care to Medical Students In compliance with the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) accreditation guidelines, it is imperative that all clinical faculty who provide psychological counseling and/or medical care to medical students have no role in the evaluation process of the students whom they see as patients or clients. Since many of the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine clinical training programs take place under the supervision and care of clinical faculty who maintain practices at various outpatient and inpatient settings in the Miami-Dade County area, it is possible that a student may seek medical care and/or psychological counseling in a practice where a faculty member sees patients or clients. Health care professionals who provide psychiatric/psychological counseling or other sensitive health care services (e.g., sexually transmitted diseases, substance abuse, rape, etc.) to medical students shall not be involved in the evaluation or promotion of those students they treat.

Faculty members of the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine who already have an evaluative relationship with a student cannot provide psychological counseling or medical care to that student. A student who has received psychological counseling or medical care from a faculty member prior to entering an evaluative relationship may request reassignment from the Executive Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs. A faculty member who has provided psychological counseling or medical care to a student prior to entering an evaluative relationship will request and receive reassignment of the student to another faculty member.

Financial Counseling

the financial aid officeThe Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine Financial Aid Office is located in the Office of Student Affairs. The Director of Financial Aid is dedicated to assisting students with

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the financial aid application process and provides one-on-one counseling regarding the availability of federal, private and institutional funds. Students can meet with the Director of Financial Aid Mondays through Fridays. Extended office hours are available upon request.

There are several financial aid and scholarship options available to medical students, such as the FIU Graduate (Need) Grant, institutional and private scholarships, and federal and private student loans. The main types of aid available are listed below. For additional information and applicable forms, please visit http://finaid.fiu.edu.

types of aid

• fiu graduate (need) grant: Award based on financial need which does not have

to be repaid.

• Scholarships: Non-repayable awards, which may be based on merit, financial

need, and other considerations.

• federal Stafford loans: Available to students at low interest rates with the option

to defer repayment until after graduation or after withdrawal. Federal Stafford loans

are available to students to help meet the cost of education after grant/scholarship

options have been exhausted. Federal Stafford Loans are considered a form of

financial aid and, since the loans are federally guaranteed, there are no credit checks

on them. Every student is eligible as long as the criteria is met, the student is not in

default on a current student loan, or has not exceeded the federal aggregate loan limit.

• federal Subsidized Stafford loan: Awarded to students demonstrating a

financial need as determined by the federal processor. Interest payments on this loan

are subsidized (i.e., the student is not charged interest) by the federal government

while the student is in school or during authorized periods of deferments.

• federal unsubsidized Stafford loan: A student does not have to

demonstrate financial need to receive this loan. Interest payments on this loan

are not subsidized by the government. The student can make arrangements

with the lender to pay the interest while he or she is in school or can allow the

interest to capitalize, adding to the principal balance.

• federal graduate Plus loan: This loan is available to graduate students who are

enrolled in an eligible program. Students must file a FAFSA form in order to apply for

a Federal Graduate Plus Loan. This loan requires a credit check for eligibility.

• Private Student loans: Private student loans can be obtained in addition to Federal

Stafford Loans. Private student loans are based on credit and the interest rate is variable.

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For more information, please visit the main FIU Financial Aid website (http://finaid.fiu. edu), the College website http://medicine.fiu.edu or make an appointment with the College’s Director of Financial Aid.

Financial aid funds are disbursed by the College’s Financial Aid Office in coordination with the Florida International University Financial Aid Office and in accordance with the requirements of the particular financial aid. For more information on the disbursement procedures, please visit the website: http://finaid.fiu.edu.

debt management and loan exit CounselingThe Director of Financial Aid will meet with students to encourage smart and conscientious borrowing habits. Personal or group debt management sessions will be available throughout the program. All students who have received loans during medical school are required to attend a mandatory “Loan Exit” counseling session. This is a federal requirement for graduation for any student who has received federal student loans for school.

The HWCOM Director of Financial Aid holds group sessions on debt management which are mandatory for all medical students during Period 1. During the first debt management session, students are provided a printed copy of their federal loan history and are informed about the National Student Loan Data System and how to retrieve their personal loan history. Debt management information and presentations are posted on the HWCOM “md2b” website, a portal of information for HWCOM medical students. The HWCOM Director of Financial Aid is also available for individual debt management counseling. In addition, students have access to the various financial aid resources provided by the AAMC, including the Financial Information, Resources, Services, and Tools (FIRST) online program at http://aamc.org/programs/first/start.htm, which includes a tutorial entitled, Financial Literacy 101, podcasts, and many other resources.

FIU participates in the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan program. To ensure students understand their responsibility to repay student loans, the federal government requires all student loan borrowers to undergo Exit Loan Counseling prior to graduating or leaving college and entering into repayment. HWCOM students have the opportunity to attend multiple mandatory and optional debt management sessions in person and online before they attend the mandatory exit interview in their fourth year.

ScholarshipsScholarships require students to maintain satisfactory academic progress. Students who have had a leave of absence approved by the Office of Student Affairs may continue to receive the scholarships upon their return to the College, provided that the leave of absence was

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not granted because of academic or professional deficiency. Students who fail to maintain satisfactory academic levels of progress will lose their eligibility for scholarship renewal.

Tuition Refund PolicyIn accordance with FIU policy, the university will refund the full tuition & fees if the student officially withdraws or is dismissed from the College in writing before the first day of Orientation. Students may receive twenty-five (25%) of the tuition and fees if they officially withdraw or are dismissed from the College before the first four weeks of classes.

tuition accommodation Policy: repeating Several academic Courses

1. A medical student enrolled in the HWCOM may seek accommodation of tuition

when that student has been reviewed by the MSEPC and offered an option of

repeating specific courses in an academic period, rather than repeating all of the

courses in the academic period.

2. The pro-rated tuition will be calculated by the Associate Dean for Curriculum

and Medical Education based on the number of credits awarded by the courses

repeated when compared to the total number of credits awarded by all courses in

the academic period.

3. This pro-rated tuition will be payable in twice a year similar to the tuition payments

by the other students.

4. The student receiving this tuition accommodation must, however, pay the full

HWCOM and FIU fees that apply to all enrolled students.

5. The student receiving this tuition accommodation must also sign an agreement

attesting to their understanding and agreement with the accommodation.

Standard of Academic Performance Policy for Financial Aid Eligibility

Students must remain in “good academic standing” as defined by the Curriculum

Committee to be eligible for financial aid.

Quantitative measure of Progress Completion rate requirement: Students must successfully complete 67% of attempted

credits taken at the HWCOM by the end of each financial aid awarding year.

maximum time frame: Students must follow the decision of the HWCOM MSEPC. A

medical student will have a maximum of six years to complete the program.

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Faculty MentorsMentoring is the process of providing advocacy, expertise, and sharing of experiences designed to support and guide a student’s educational and professional development. The Faculty Mentorship program is open to all currently-enrolled medical students at the FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine (HWCOM). This program, under the direction of the Office of Student Affairs, is designed to provide students with one professional individual to provide guidance throughout his/her four year medical school experience; such mentorship may possibly last a lifetime.

Starting with the first period of the medical school curriculum, each medical student will have an opportunity to select a personal mentor from an approved list of physicians and Ph.D. faculty members who agree to serve on the Faculty Mentorship Panel. The student should select a mentor who he/she feels would best suit their needs and interests as a medical student and/or as a future physician. The choice of mentor is totally up to the student based on reaching a mutual agreement between the student and his/her choice of faculty mentor.

Faculty mentors are typically the students’ first point of contact for issues concerning personal and professional development. The major role of the faculty mentor is to guide the student in creating, maintaining and refining his or her vision of life as a physician. Students and mentors are encouraged to meet outside of academic time, in a more personal and informal setting (such as over dinner or a cup of coffee). The faculty mentor may act like a trusted parental figure to help guide the student in the transition from undergraduate student to medical student to post-graduate opportunities. The frequency of contact between student and mentor should be driven by the needs and interests of the student.

Much of the communications between mentor and student may be confidential.

Academic Advising

Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine (HWCOM) is committed to helping students achieve

their academic and personal goals through quality academic advising. HWCOM uses a

holistic approach to the student’s development, providing students current information,

guidance, and access to a network of resources to obtain maximum benefits from their

educational experience. Academic advising begins during a required 1-week Orientation

program prior to the first day of class. The Orientation is designed to assist students

with the transition to medical school and acquaint them with available resources at the

medical school, the parent university, and in the local community. The HWCOM system for

academic advising involves both the Office of Student Affairs and the Office of Academic

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Affairs, integrating the efforts of faculty and course directors with the school’s academic

advising, tutoring, and mentoring programs.

The Office of Academic Affairs monitors students’ academic progress, providing an

early warning system for students experiencing academic difficulties. This academic

advising system is under the aegis of the Associate Dean for Curriculum and Medical

Education with input from the Executive Associate Dean for Student Affairs. The Office

of Academic Affairs and the Office of Student Affairs coordinate counseling services to

assure responsiveness to student needs.

During its first academic year, HWCOM’s system of academic advising focused on

students who were identified as having academic difficulty and students who chose to

take advantage of the many services offered for mentoring and advising. Any student

at risk of failing a course or displaying a marginally passing performance undergoes a

confidential meeting with the Associate Dean for Curriculum and Medical Education and

Executive Associate Dean for Student Affairs to discuss potential interventions. Students

are also encouraged to self-identify or self-report academic difficulties to the Course or

Clerkship Director or to one of the deans. Tutoring is provided upon request from students

or arranged following a consultation. Tutoring is conducted by assigned faculty members

and/or by more advanced (M2, M3, or M4) students, when appropriate. This academic

advising system is currently being expanded to include routine, systematic academic

advising by assigned faculty advisors to guide students in fulfilling their educational goals.

Restructuring of HWCOM’S formal academic advising service coincides with increasing

enrollment and realignment of responsibilities for academic Medical Student Performance

Evaluation (formerly the “Dean’s Letter”) to the Office of Academic Affairs. The new Academic

Advising Program will be implemented in January 2011 under the direction of an Assistant

Dean for Academic Advising. Each student will be assigned to an academic advisor and will

meet with that advisor at least once per academic period to review academic performance

and progress toward academic goals. A student in academic difficulty, as identified by

unsatisfactory performance on an exam or in a course, will be required to meet with his/her

academic advisor and develop a plan for appropriate periodic review.

Academic advisors will have in-depth knowledge of the curriculum and support services

available to HWCOM students so they will be able to make appropriate referrals. Academic

advisors will assist the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs in preparing Medical

Student Performance Evaluations.

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The Office of Student Affairs also provides advising for students from individuals who

have no role in making promotion or evaluation decisions. The Executive Associate Dean,

Assistant Deans, and directors in the Office of Student Affairs are available to provide

advice and advocacy for students. The Counseling and Wellness Center, a department

within the Office of Student Affairs and located in a private confidential office suite in a

different on-campus location, offers professional counseling and support on academic,

career, psychological, and health-related issues.

tutoring

HWCOM operates a tutoring program operates under the aegis of the Associate Dean for

Curriculum and Medical Education. During its first academic year, HWCOM recruited a

faculty member with a primary assignment managing tutoring during the first two periods

of the curriculum. The tutoring program includes diagnostic work and creation of a

personalized tutoring plan for addressing individual student needs. Identification of faculty

and, when appropriate, more advanced (M2, M3, or M4) students to provide tutoring is a

routine component of the program. Faculty effort for tutoring is considered in recruitment

and hiring of teaching faculty.

Students having academic difficulty based on poor course performance may be required

to attend formal tutoring sessions as part of their remediation agreement. Students may

be referred for tutoring by the Office of Academic Affairs, a Course Director, or the Medical

Student Evaluations and Promotion Committee (MSEPC). Students may also request tutoring

services on their own. The tutorial sessions may be group sessions or individual sessions.

After the first year, M2 students are expected to serve as tutors and are paid a fee for tutorial

services established by the Associate Dean for Curriculum and Medical Education. There

is no charge to the student for tutoring by either students or faculty. More advanced (M2,

M3, or M4) students will be eligible to tutor. Students may, on their own and independent of

the Office of Student Affairs, contact faculty, graduate students, and upper class students

for informal tutoring services should they desire; however, the cost of independent tutoring

is at the student’s own expense.

Tutoring effectiveness is assessed by student performance. In the first academic year,

eleven of twelve students who used tutoring services were successful in meeting academic

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Career Counseling

Career counseling for medical students occurs throughout the 4-year medical school

experience at Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine (HWCOM). Students receive

guidance from a variety of sources and programs during each year of their medical

education experience as shown in the table below.

The Office of Academic Affairs and the student’s academic advisor have primary responsibility in

counseling students about career choices and choice of subinternships, electives and selective

rotations for the fourth period. A Pathways Guide has been developed by the Curriculum

Committee to guide choice of period 4 activities based on specialty interest. Academic Affairs

also works with Student Affairs in assuring that students are pursuing realistic options given

academic performance. The Deans in the Office of Student Affairs also provide career and

residency counseling and will meet with each student during Period 3. Through each Dean’s

professional and personal experiences, their association with other medical schools and

residency training programs, and their association with professional medical education bodies

such as the Association of American Medical Colleges, medical students have the benefit

of considerable expertise in academic and career counseling. As with personal counseling,

career counseling through the Office of Student Affairs is available on a walk-in or appointment

basis to accommodate each student’s needs.

X X X X

X X X X X X

X X X X X X

X X X X X

X

X

X X

X

X X X X X X

X X X X X

X X X X X

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Teaching Faculty

Student Affairs

Academic Affairs

Clinical Affairs

Clerkship Directors

Preceptors

Faculty Mentors

Resident Physicians

Physician Specialists


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Additional career counseling is accomplished in small group sessions arranged by the

Panther Communities. Faculty members, Course Directors, clinical attending physicians,

tutors, and mentors interact with HWCOM students on a regular basis and provide

ongoing career counseling both individually and in group settings. Workshops on the

residency match process, including mock interviews, assertiveness and communication

skills, strengths training, resiliency, and professional development are provided.

The HWCOM curriculum exposes medical students to clinical faculty from the first month of

their medical education experience through all four years of the Doctor of Medicine degree

program. As students progress through their clinical rotations, they interface with clinicians

in a broad variety of disciplines; those clinicians serve as resources, providing students with

information to understand specific specialties. Throughout all periods, teaching faculty play

a primary role in counseling students about potential career choices and guiding students in

selecting Period 4 rotations that will help them decide on and prepare for specialty training.

Careers in medicine

During Period 1, all HWCOM students are requested to create a personal profile at the

Careers in Medicine (CiM) online program sponsored by the Association of American

Medical Colleges (AAMC) at https://www.aamc.org/students/medstudents/cim.

Careers in Medicine is a four-phase career planning program to help students select a

medical specialty and apply to a residency program. In the first phase, students create

a personal profile by taking an online self-assessment to help them identify their values,

interests, skills, personality, and practice needs. This confidential personal information

guides students during the second phase as they explore a variety of medical specialties

and other career options available to them in the field of medicine. Later in their medical

education experience, students complete phases three and four of the CiM process,

which guides them in choosing a specialty and applying for and being accepted into a

residency program.

faculty mentors

During Period 1, students receive a list of faculty members who have volunteered to serve

as mentors to medical students. Students meet with the Faculty Director of their Panther

Community to discuss personal and professional interests, and based on this are asked to

select one faculty member from this approved list to serve as their official mentor. These

mentors are typically the students’ first point of contact for issues concerning personal and

professional development. Students are expected to meet with their mentor periodically

throughout his/her medical school experience. Contact may be initiated by the student or


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the mentor. During the clinical years, the faculty mentor will provide advice pertinent to the

overall clinical clerkship experiences and help arrange for additional extracurricular clinical

opportunities in specialties based on the preferences of the student. The faculty mentor may

also assist with the process of selecting a residency.

Specialty interest groups

Specialty interest groups are student-initiated organizations under the auspices of the

Office of Student Affairs. All student members sharing a common specialty interest are

invited to participate in professional, social, and cultural activities pertaining to that chosen

specialty. Interest groups provide greater exposure to the specialty than afforded by the

curriculum and clinical clerkships, by emphasizing shadowing experiences with established

practicing specialists in the community that serve as role models and mentors. A specialty

interest group provides students with opportunities to attend educational meetings

sponsored by local, regional, state, national, and international professional associations

of that specialty. Through their participation, medical students become knowledgeable

about, and may even consider becoming an active medical student member of, one or

more professional associations of that specialty.

At FIU, medical students may participate in any of the following student organizations:

• AmericanMedicalAssociation–FloridaMedicalAssociation

• AmericanMedicalStudentAssociation(AMSA)

• AmericanMedicalWomen’sAssociation(AMWA)

• EmergencyMedicineInterestGroup

• FamilyMedicineInterestGroup

• InternalMedicineInterestGroup

• MilitaryMedicineInterestGroup

• NeurosciencesInterestGroup

• Non-profit,GlobalHealthInterestGroup

• ObstetricsandGynecologyInterestGroup

• PediatricsInterestGroup

• RadiologyInterestGroup

• SportsMedicineInterestGroup

• SurgeryInterestGroup


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Panther CommunitiesThe HWCOM Panther Communities host a variety of professional development seminars,

inviting physicians of various specialties and subspecialties to conduct a series of formal

workshops on medical career options, the residency and post-residency application

process, and clinical and business aspects of their medical practice (e.g., personal and

lifestyle issues). Students have opportunities to explore different specialties through the

formal faculty mentorship program and through self-initiated conversations with physician

specialists during required ambulatory clinic preceptorships, emergency department

rotations, and professional conferences. Many professional programs sponsored by the

Panther Communities and medical student organizations support the medical school

curriculum by enhancing professionalism.

The faculty directors of each of the four Panther Communities provide additional career

advising. Informational and educational programs pertaining to various specialties are

provided periodically through the Panther Communities and the Office of Student Affairs,

including Residency Fairs and sponsorship of informal events that allow medical students to

interact with physicians of various specialties, who provide information and answer questions

pertaining to various post-graduate training options. The Office of Student Affairs also

sponsors annual career specialty fairs at which physicians make presentations to groups

of students highlighting their specific specialty; representatives from various specialties are

available to answer questions asked by students who stop by their table/booth.

During Period 3, a dean in the Office of Student Affairs meets with each student and offers

advice concerning residencies. Students receive assistance in developing a portfolio for

residency application and identifying faculty to write appropriate letters of recommendation.

Clerkship Directors serve as a resource for students seeking counsel about pursuing a

career in a specific discipline and advise students on selection of electives to help them

prepare for future career opportunities. Faculty at all HWCOM affiliated clinical sites are

expected to serve as role models in their specialty areas and to provide objective career

counseling to HWCOM students, including referrals to colleagues, as appropriate in

response to student interests.


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During Period 4, the Office of Student Affairs assists students to register with the Electronic

Residency Application Service (ERAS) and provides personal and group counseling

sessions on preparing residency applications (CV, letters of recommendation, personal

statements) and registration for the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP). A

Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE) and transcript are sent to the director of

each program to which the student applies.

During Period 4 rotations, the HWCOM faculty preceptors help each student identify

appropriate specialists who have personal experience in the student’s areas of interest

and can guide the student in making appropriate choices. The Curriculum Committee

created a Pathways Guide to assist students in selection of Period 4 rotations based on

interests in Graduate Medical Education match fields.


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Notes

Academic Affairs and Clinical AffairsTHe HerberT WerTHeIm College oF medICIne STudenT Handbook 2010-2011


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Academic Affairs and Clinical Affairs

Overview of the Medical Curriculumeducation

Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine (HWCOM) offers a

4-year course of study leading to the Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. The program began

in 2009 with an inaugural class of 43 students and will eventually reach full capacity of 480

students.

HWCOM was granted preliminary accreditation from the Liaison Committee for Medical

Education in February 2008 and is currently undergoing processes to achieve the next

step: provisional accreditation. The College is on track to attain full accreditation prior to

graduating its first class in 2013.

doctor of medicine degree (md) Program

The 4-year course of study leading to the Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree at FIU

Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine (HWCOM) is based on development of general

competencies in medical knowledge, patient-centered care, communication skills,

professionalism, system-based medical practice, practice-based learning and quality

improvement skills, and socially responsible practices. The educational program is broad

and general, preparing students for postgraduate study in their chosen field of medical

specialization, licensure, and medical practice.

The curriculum is built upon study in five major strands: Human Biology; Human Disease,

Illness, and Injury; Clinical Medicine; Professional Development; and Medicine and Society.

Educational program objectives guide curricular content within each strand. The curriculum

is divided into four periods of study containing courses within each of the five strands. Basic

medical science, clinical medical science and clinical skills are integrated throughout the four

periods of study. Course work is multidisciplinary and features a case format in which basic

science is learned in a clinical context. Clinical experiences in primary care and emergency

settings begin in the first period of study as coordinated opportunities for practical application

basic knowledge, skills and reasoning. Students are engaged with families, households, and

communities in a longitudinal service-learning program in collaboration with FIU students

from other health professions. Clinical training begins with basic medical conditions in

outpatient settings and advances progressively with more complex cases and conditions

in hospital settings, culminating in subinternship experiences. Independent scholarship and

broad elective opportunities in the third and fourth periods encourage students to explore

personal interests and build individualized competencies in preparation for advanced

postgraduate study and practice in a specialty area.


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Student learning is guided by objectives for every course, defined core clinical case

experiences, competency standards in specific clinical skills, and standards of professional

behavior. Students log all clinical experiences and monitored for progressive development of

essential skills and general competencies.

Periods of Study

The curriculum has four sequential periods of study.

Period 1 provides the foundations of medicine in core basic, clinical, and social sciences.

Core basic medical sciences include medical genetics, cell biology, anatomy, physiology,

pharmacology, microbiology and infections, and pathology. An introduction to clinical skills

focuses on doctor–patient communication, general physical exam skills, foundations of

evidence-based medicine and quantitative measurements, and medical research. Studies

also include medical ethics, regional cultures in relation to medicine, self-reflection, and

professionalism in doctor–patient relationships. At the beginning of the period, students

become certified in basic life support (BLS) in preparation for half-day primary care clinics

and weekend emergency department shifts throughout the period. Medical simulations,

standard patient experiences, and virtual case studies complement classroom study and

prepare students for patient-centered clinical experience learning.

Period 2 is organized around in-depth study of human biology, disease, illness, and injury

in an organ-system approach. Pathology, physiology, anatomy, and pharmacology are

emphasized in case-based study of the major systems: hematopoietic and lymphoreticular,

endocrine, reproductive, musculoskeletal, skin, gastrointestinal, renal/urinary, cardiovascular,

respiratory, and nervous. Students develop clinical skills in conducting physical exams,

forming differential diagnoses, and understanding how to interpret and use laboratory

medicine data and imaging technologies. Clinical skills are taught as integrated and

coordinated components of the organ systems. Simultaneously, courses in the strands of

Professional Development and Medicine and Society continue, with study of health care

systems and policy, interprofessional health care, community health, medical jurisprudence,

and end-of-life care. Students begin their service-learning study with households in the

community and begin clerkship format learning in geriatrics. They continue monthly

emergency room clinical experiences.


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Period 3 involves seven core clerkships: internal medicine, surgery, neurology, obstetrics

and gynecology, pediatrics, psychiatry, and family medicine. Study is predominantly

preceptor-guided student–patient experiences with increasingly complex medical

conditions in outpatient and hospital settings. Students are guided through progressively

greater responsibility as they gain experience managing care of patients. Students learn how

to apply skills learned in the laboratory and demonstrate competency in core procedural

skills. Learning is enhanced by simulation and virtual cases. Elective opportunities in internal

medicine and surgery clerkships allow students explore specialty areas. Community and

household projects continue during Period 3, and weekly conferences provide opportunities

for students to work together on comprehensive, in-depth study of major medical conditions.

Students are expected to pass Step 1 of the USMLE medical licensure exam at the end of

the period and to demonstrate general competency in clinical skills, diagnosis of disease,

and case management.

Period 4 is devoted to advanced medicine, including scholarship and exploration of

specialty areas to facilitate choice of postgraduate study. Students select individualized

schedules that best serve their long-term career goals. Six of the twelve required 4-week

rotations are targeted selectives: 1 subinternship, 2 surgical, 2 medical, and 1 hospital-

based specialty. Two rotations are dedicated to research scholarship (individual research

projects), two rotations are electives, and one rotation is community medicine. The final year

concludes with a 4-week Capstones experience that includes the culmination of the Green

Family Foundation Medicine and Society NeighborhoodHELP™ program, professional

development workshops on career management, and a clinical medicine residency boot

camp to hone clinical skills and attain certification in Advanced Cardiac Life support (ACLS).


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academic departments

The College has 16 separate academic departments in which medical students receive

their professional training.

basic Science departments

Cellular Biology and Pharmacology

Human and Molecular Genetics

Immunology

Molecular Microbiology and Infectious Diseases

Pathology

Clinical Science departments

Humanities, Health, and Society

Internal Medicine

Neurology

Neurosurgery

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Ophthalmology

Orthopedics

Pediatrics

Psychiatry

Radiology

Surgery

The FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine (HWCOM) Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree

curriculum is organized in five longitudinal strands:

1. Human Biology

2. Disease, Illness, and Injury

3. Clinical Medicine

4. Professional Development

5. Medicine and Society

Within each strand are sequential, focused courses. An overview of the sequence and

relationship among required courses and clerkships in each academic period of the

curriculum follows.


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The Period 4 curriculum is divided into twelve 4-week rotations as shown in the chart

above. With a few exceptions, students may create their schedule in any order. All students

participate in the Capstones rotation in the last month before graduation. The Capstones

rotation includes a one-credit Green Family Foundation Medicine and Society Capstone,

Professional Development workshops on career management, and a Clinical Medicine

residency boot camp.


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graduation requirements

Prior to graduation and the receipt of the Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from HWCOM,

students must demonstrate proficiency in each of the following five areas:

1. Courses: Students must complete the required courses and the appropriate number of

elective and selective courses earning a minimum of 200 credits.

2. Licensing exams: Students must pass the USMLE Step I examination (required for

promotion to Period 4) and complete the USMLE Step II Clinical Knowledge and Clinical

Skills examinations.

3. Competency Assessments: Students must demonstrate competency in all of the seven

general competencies and earn certification for Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced

Cardiac Life Support (ACLS).

4. Professional Performance: Students must demonstrate professionalism consistently in all

aspects of the educational program.

5. Review and approval of academic and professional record by the MSEPC prior to

graduation: Students must receive the MSEPC’s recommendation for graduation and

receipt of the MD degree; this recommendation must be approved by the HWCOM Dean.

The Green Family Foundation NeighborhoodHELP™

The Department of Humanities, Health & Society (HHS) of the Florida International

University (FIU) Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine (HWCOM) is spearheading a

unique undergraduate medical education program in collaboration with fellow colleges

at FIU and community partners to prepare physicians to assess and address the non-

medical factors that affect health outcomes. HHS includes three divisions: 1) The

Medicine & Society (M&S) Division is responsible for one of five educational strands of the

HWCOM curriculum; 2) The Policy & Community Development Division is responsible for

developing and maintaining the community infrastructure for the Green Family Foundation

NeighborhoodHELP™ (Health Education Learning Program); and 3) The Family Medicine

Division is responsible for clinical integration of the curriculum and supervision of students

in households and other community sites. Our goal is to educate future physicians who

will be socially aware and responsive, highly skilled, compassionate, culturally competent

health care providers, who are attuned to the complex health and social needs of South

Florida’s diverse and medically underserved populations.



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the green family foundation medicine & Society ProgramThe Green Family Foundation Medicine & Society Program is part of the Division of

Medicine & Society. The goal of the Division is to educate the next generation of physicians

to: 1) practice medicine based on the ethical principles of the profession; 2) recognize and

address the clinical correlations of the social and cultural aspects of health; and 3) work

effectively in an inter-professional team to maximize health of patients. The Medicine &

Society curriculum runs longitudinally throughout the four years of training. There are eight

courses vertically integrated with the Green Family Foundation NeighborhoodHELP™

and the Family Medicine curriculum. Medical students will be introduced to issues of

health disparities and local community needs through lectures, case-based small group

discussions, and immersion in the community.

In the first year, students learn the foundations of the ethical practice of medicine, social

and cultural of health, public health principles, and inter-professional approaches to health,

through case-based learning and lectures in order to acquire skills which they will integrate

and apply throughout their medical education and medical career. Students will assess

local health needs through data collected from a community benchmark assessment,

as well as their own asset maps, and interviews with local community agencies, and

the Green Family Foundation NeighborhoodHELP™ household visits. Students will be

assigned to a household and make visits to that household with an inter-professional

team of students that includes nursing and social work, as well as others, throughout their

education. The household visits begin in Period 1 during the Medicine & Society course 3,

“Inter-professional Approaches to Health,” and continue through course 8, “ Green Family

Foundation Medicine & Society CAPSTONE,” at the end of Period 4.

the green family foundation neighborhoodHelP™ Household VisitsNeighborhoodHELP™ is a health education program that joins diverse academic and

community partners to address society’s most daunting health, social, and policy

concerns. Central to this effort is the assignment of student teams or outreach workers to

consenting households with the goal of working collaboratively with household members

to identify and better utilize existing health and social services. The core team consists of

medical, nursing, and social work students with students from law, public health, nutrition,

education and other academic areas providing services on an ‘as needed’ basis. The

diversity of our student teams represents the diversity of our approach to finding solutions

for the households and the neighborhoods at large. Students will visits at least once per

month in the home setting during daylight hours with members of their household. Medical


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students will attend medical office visits with household members. These households

should exhibit greater performance of beneficial health behaviors, reduced utilization of

emergency services, as well as stronger ties to social service resources. Success will

translate to a more diversely experienced South Florida health and social service workforce,

improved health literacy among households, and healthier neighborhoods.

Medical students will collaborate with other members of their inter-professional team on

these global tasks to:

1. Build rapport,

2. Assess household assets & needs,

3. Jointly develop plans ,

4. Educate and empower participants to improve their health status,

5. Facilitate access for participants to health, social, educational, and legal services, and

6. Document interventions & outcomes

family medicine Family Medicine is the specialty of medicine that focuses on the whole person, regardless

of age, gender, or disease, set within their social and community context. At HWCOM,

Family Medicine is integrated longitudinally with the Green Family Foundation Medicine

& Society Program and the Green Family Foundation NeighborhoodHELP™. Students

progressively integrate biological, social and clinical learning objectives in clinical and

household settings.

From the start of the first year of school, the Family Medicine Primary Care Preceptorship

places students with clinical mentors in health care settings. The period two Family

Medicine clerkship includes the Green Family Foundation NeighborhoodHELP™ and a

longitudinal Family Medicine Geriatrics clerkship at the Leon Medical Centers. The period

three Family Medicine clerkship continues the household visits and provides an opportunity

for students to work in the clinical setting under the supervision of the Family Medicine

faculty with a focus on health promotion and disease management. During period four,

students will integrate their learning into the Green Family Foundation Medicine & Society

Capstone project and in an intensive outpatient community medicine rotation, with

opportunity for electives in areas of interest they identify during the first three years.



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Affiliate Clinical Sites

general Policy:Several major clinical care sites have become affiliated with the FIU Herbert Wertheim

College of Medicine to provide clinical education, clerkships, and other experiences

for medical students throughout the four-year curriculum. The major sites include:

• JacksonHealthSystem(PublicHealthTrust)

• MiamiChildren’sHospital

• MountSinaiMedicalCenter

• BaptistHealthSouthFlorida

• MercyHospital

• MemorialHealthcareSystem

• BrowardHealth

• ClevelandClinicFlorida

• LeonMedicalCenters

Medical students who receive clinical education or participate in a clinical clerkship at

each of the affiliate clinical sites of the College are required to abide by all of the rules

and regulations of the particular site. Prior to their first patient contact experience at

each of these sites, medical students will receive an orientation to the major policies and

procedures by their supervising faculty physician(s) for their educational experiences at

the affiliate site. The office of the Dean and the Office of Student Affairs each maintain a

manual from each of the affiliate hospitals which contain the policies and procedures that

are most pertinent for medical students, including but not limited to the following:

• Professionaldresscode

• Blood-bornepathogenandneedlestickinjury

• Communicablediseases

• Safetyandincidentreporting

• Drug-freeworkplace

Students are responsible for understanding and following all of the rules and regulations.

Failure to abide by these policies and procedures will be reported to the supervising faculty

physician and could result in referral to the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine MSEPC

for recommendation and action.


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Hospital Affiliates

Jackson Health System (Public Health trust)http://www.jhsmiami.org

Jackson Health System is an internationally recognized academic medical system serving

as the cornerstone health care system of the South Florida community for more than ninety

years. Jackson North Medical Center is a 382-bed acute care center located in North

Miami Beach that serves the residents of north Miami-Dade and south Broward counties.

A variety of services are offered, including 24-hour adult and pediatric emergency care,

maternity, orthopedics, surgery, psychiatry, and inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation.

Jackson North Medical Center also is home to the following specialized centers: the

Weight Loss Surgery Center; Wound Care Center; Center for Mental Health, and the Pain

and Spine Institute.

Jackson Health System, an integrated healthcare delivery system, is governed by the

Public Health Trust of Miami-Dade County. The Jackson Health System consists of its

centerpiece, Jackson Memorial Hospital; 12 primary care centers and two primary care

mobile vans; multiple school-based clinics serving many elementary, middle, and high

schools; two long-term nursing facilities; six Corrections Health Services clinics; a network

of mental health facilities; Holtz Children’s Hospital; Jackson Rehabilitation Hospital;

Jackson South Community Hospital, and Jackson North Medical Center.

miami Children’s Hospitalhttp://www.mch.com

Miami Children’s Hospital (MCH) is South Florida’s only licensed specialty hospital

exclusively for children and is home to the largest pediatric teaching program in the

Southeastern United States. The hospital features 289 pediatric and neonatal beds, more

than any other children’s hospital in Florida and offers more than 40 pediatric specialties

and subspecialties. MCH is renowned for excellence in all aspects of pediatric health

care from birth through adolescence and is routinely ranked as one of the best children’s

hospital in the nation. MCH is home to Florida’s only free-standing pediatric trauma center,

the largest children’s cancer center in the region, and the Brain Institute which is the largest

clinical neurology program in the nation, treating more than 45,000 children annually. MCH

has been designated as an American Nurses Credentialing Center Magnet Facility, the

nursing profession’s most prestigious institutional honor, and is the first children’s hospital

in Florida and the fifth children’s hospital in the United States to achieve this distinction.



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mount Sinai medical Centerhttp://www.msmc.com

Located in Miami Beach, with more than 700 physicians, Mount Sinai Medical Center (MSMC)

is South Florida’s largest, private, independent, not-for-profit teaching hospital. MSMC was

founded in 1949 and currently has more than 950 licensed beds and 26 operating suites. The

medical center has the most active cardiac program in South Florida, performing more than

550 open heart surgeries and 3,749 diagnostic and therapeutic cardiac catheterizations.

MSMC participates in more than 15 national and international cardiac research clinical trials

annually. Some of the major centers associated with MSMC include the largest memory

disorder center in Florida (Wien Center for Alzheimer’s Disease and Memory Disorders), a

state-of-the-art cancer center (The Mount Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Center), and the

only NCI-sponsored Community Clinical Oncology Program (CCOP) for adults in Florida.

Mount Sinai became a teaching hospital in 1953, when it established its first medical

residency programs. Currently, it is one of only six statutory teaching hospitals in the

state of Florida, attracting leaders in all fields and specialties. Each year, MSMC trains

approximately 160 doctors representing 22 medical specialties including anesthesia;

cardiology; cardiothoracic surgery; dermatology; emergency medicine; gastroenterology;

general surgery; internal medicine; pathology; pediatrics; psychiatry; pulmonary disease;

radiology; sleep disorders; surgical oncology, and urologic oncology.

Students will be offered subinternships in medicine and surgery at Mount Sinai, as well

as Advanced Medicine and Surgery clerkships, selectives, and electives during Period 4.

mercy Hospitalhttp://www.mercymiami.org

Mercy Hospital is a 473-bed acute care hospital, staffed by more than 700 physicians

representing 27 medical specialties. Established in 1950, Mercy Hospital is the only

Catholic hospital in Miami Dade County and is a ministry of the Roman Catholic Church,

a member of Catholic Health East, and sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph of St.

Augustine, Florida. Centers of Excellence include the Heart Center, the Miami Cancer

Center, the Orthopedic Institute, and the Minimally Invasive Surgical Institute.

Mercy Hospital is a recipient of the prestigious Magnet™ award for nursing excellence and

HealthGrades’ Distinguished Hospital for Clinical Excellence Award™. Mercy Research

Institute participates in a variety of clinical research in cardiology, diabetes, infectious disease,

oncology, rheumatology, oncology and many other therapeutic areas. Mercy Hospital is

recognized as a leader in neurology, diabetes, and surgical weight loss procedures.


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baptist Health South floridahttp://www.baptisthealth.net

Baptist Health South Florida is the largest not-for-profit health care organization in the

region. Affiliates of Baptist Health include: Baptist Hospital of Miami, South Miami Hospital,

Baptist Cardiac & Vascular Institute, Baptist Children’s Hospital, Doctors Hospital,

Homestead Hospital and Mariners Hospital. West Kendall Baptist Hospital is scheduled to

open in 2011 and will become the major teaching facility for FIU within the Baptist System.

Students rotate through the Emergency Room at Baptist Hospital and South Miami

Hospital in Periods I and II. In Period III core clerkships in Surgery and Internal Medicine are

conducted at Baptist Hospital and Memorial Regional and the Neurology core clerkship

is partially at Baptist Hospital. West Kendall Baptist will be utilized in addition for these

rotations after its opening. In Period IV selectives and electives will be offered at Baptist

facilities and, in addition, a Rural Medicine rotation will be offered at Mariners Hospital, a

Baptist site in the Florida Keys.

Cleveland Clinic florida, Weston flhttp://my.clevelandclinic.org/florida

The Cleveland Clinic Foundation in Weston Florida, is a subsidiary of the Cleveland Clinic

and is a fully-integrated campus including a state-of-the-art Clinic housing a medical staff

with more than 150 physicians practicing more than 35 different medical specialties, as

well as a full-service hospital with 150 beds. A 24-hour emergency department and open

heart surgery are among the many services available. Residency programs are available

in Neurology, Internal Medicine, Plastic Surgery and Colorectal Surgery and Fellowships

are available in a number of areas including Cardiology, Gastroenterology, Geriatrics and

Nephrology, Urogynecology and Bariatric Surgery. It is anticipated that students will rotate

through Cleveland Clinic for Period IV rotations beginning in 2012.

memorial Healthcare System, broward Countyhttp://www.mhs.net

Memorial Health, formerly known as Broward South Health System, serves the southern

third of Broward County and has a network of 6 Hospitals and 15 Clinics. It is one of the

largest public hospital networks in the US. The hospital network has 1,600 beds and

treats more than 80,000 inpatients annually. It was ranked #6 as best places to work in

Healthcare in 2009 (Modern Healthcare Magazine).

The system consists of Memorial Regional Hospital, Memorial Regional South, Memorial

Pembroke, Memorial West, Memorial Miramar and Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospitals



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together with a number of ambulatory sites. Memorial Regional Hospital, a 600 bed facility,

is the flagship site and is located in Hollywood Florida. It provides all services except solid

organ transplants and has a Level I Trauma facility. Students will rotate here in Period III for

core clerkships in Internal Medicine and Surgery and in Period IV for Elective and Selective

experiences as well as Inpatient Medicine, Surgery and Subinternship experiences.

broward Healthhttp://www.browardhealth.org

Broward Health, formerly the North Broward Hospital District, is one of the 10 largest

health systems in the U.S. Located in Broward County, Florida, Broward Health has the

county’s first certified stroke center and only liver transplant program. Broward Health

currently operates more than 30 healthcare facilities, including Broward General Medical

Center, North Broward Medical Center, Imperial Point Medical Center, Coral Springs

Medical Center, Chris Evert Children’s Hospital, and Broward Health Weston. Broward

General Hospital, the flagship hospital of the group is located in Ft Lauderdale will be used

for core clerkship rotations in Obstetrics-Gynecology and in Psychiatry in Period II and for

selectives and electives in Period IV.

leon medical Centershttp://leonmedicalcenters.com

Beginning in 1996 with a single site the Leon Center has subsequently expanded to 7

centers around Miami which provide primary care, specialist care and a wide array of

laboratory and outpatient medical services to Medicare patients in Miami Dade. Founded

with the intent of providing quality healthcare to the Hispanic Medicare population, Leon

Medical Centers fulfills its promise to the community by offering personalized medical

attention in a timely, efficient manner with the utmost care and sensitivity to its patients’

specific healthcare needs.

Students will be rotating at Leon Centers in Period II as part of their Family Medicine

preceptorship, in Period III as part of their Neurology/IM Outpatient experience and in

Period IV a selective experience in outpatient Geriatrics is available.

The Gordon Center for Research in Medical Education

The Gordon Center for Research in Medical Education (GCRME) is a University of Miami

designated Center of Excellence that was established forty years ago as a unique laboratory

for the application of advanced technology to medical education for medical students and

other health care providers. The GCRME is now housed in an expanded 34,000 square

foot, new state-of–the-art facility, that houses a high technology auditorium and classrooms.


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The classrooms are used for both small and large group sessions and are equipped with

an audience response system to facilitate individual and group participation. There are thirty

computers in the self-learning laboratory, each in a private setting, where students can

review computer-based teaching programs and take course examinations. There are also

six standardized patient/simulator training areas, each equipped with AV recording, archiving

and play back capability.

For more than forty years, the GCRME has developed, evaluated, implemented and

disseminated advanced training programs using simulation technology. These include the

UMedic multi-media training systems in Cardiology, Neurology and Emergency Medicine.

The GCRME is also the home for “Harvey”, the Cardiopulmonary Patient Simulator used to

train and evaluate medical students and other health care providers on the cardiopulmonary

examination. More than 200 medical centers worldwide currently use “Harvey” and/or the

UMedic systems in their training programs; the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons

currently uses “Harvey” in its high-stakes certification examination for internists.

The GCRME houses an emergency training area where high-fidelity mannequin simulators

are used for teaching Basic and Advanced Life Support, Pediatric Advanced Life Support,

Advanced Trauma Life Support, Advanced Stroke Life Support, Management of Acute

Coronary Syndromes, Emergency Response to Terrorism, Catastrophic Health Incident

Response, and Advanced Airway Management. The Life Support training area contains

six high-fidelity simulators used for task training in a controlled environment. In addition,

there are mock emergency and trauma areas to provide more realistic experience and

team training.

At the GCRME, students will have the opportunity to apply and demonstrate their knowledge

and skills through the use of simulation technology as part of clinical medicine education.

Clinical Medicine is a longitudinal “strand” throughout the four-year medical school

curriculum, designed to provide students with the foundations of patient care that will not

only prepare them for the clinical clerkship years but also provide them with the tools that will

foster a lifetime of clinical competence. FIU student sessions take place at the GCRME one

afternoon per week, typically from 1 P.M. to 5 P.M.


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Notes

Policies and RegulationsTHe HerberT WerTHeIm College oF medICIne STudenT Handbook 2010-2011

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Policies and RegulationsTHe FIu HerberT WerTHeIm College oF medICIne

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Policies and Regulations 2010-2011

A. MATRICULATION POLICIES

C. TECHNICAL STANDARDS

B. DIvERSITy

D. ACCREDITATION

E. ACADEMIC POLICIES

F. ATTENDANCE

G. MEDICAL STUDENT ASSESSMENT PROCESS SUMMARy

H. PROFESSIONAL DRESS GUIDELINES

I. SExUAL BATTERy AND HARASSMENT

J. NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICy

K. HEALTH POLICIES

L. TECHNOLOGy POLICIES

M. MEDICAL STUDENTS RECORDS

N. MEDICAL LIBRARy

O. FIU EMERGENCy POLICIES

P. MISCELLANEOUS POLICIES

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B. DIvERSITy

D. ACCREDITATION


F. ATTENDANCE





K. HEALTH POLICIES



N. MEDICAL LIBRARy



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Health History and Medical Examination

Once applicants accept the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine’s offer to enroll and

matriculate, they will receive a welcome cover letter from the Office of Student Affairs

accompanied by a packet of information, a “Pre-Orientation Checklist” and several

types of forms that need to be submitted at least four (4) weeks prior to the first day of

Orientation. The information packet includes the following health information forms:

• MedicalHistoryandPhysicalExaminationForm

• ImmunizationDocumentationForm

• HealthInsuranceVerificationForm

• HealthandSafetyAgreement

The “Health Insurance Verification Form” and the “Health and Safety Agreement” must be

completed annually. These forms may be downloaded at: medicine.fiu.edu.

As a pre-matriculation requirement, all admitted students to the Herbert Wertheim College

of Medicine are required to see a licensed physician of their choice for a medical history and

physical examination prior to the first day of Orientation. In addition, they must receive all

required immunizations and antibody titers (see the HWCOM’s Immunization Policy). The

“Medical History and Physical Examination Form” and the “Immunization Documentation

Form” must be completed and signed by the student’s personal physician and submitted

to University Health Services (UHS) for processing, as instructed in the cover letter.

After processing, UHS will provide the Office of Student Affairs with documentation of

compliance with the pre-matriculation requirements. Students who fail to complete and

submit these forms will receive a hold on their registration.

The “Health Insurance Verification Form” and the “Health and Safety Agreement” forms,

in addition to the other forms indicated in the “Pre-Orientation Checklist,” should be sent

directly to the Office of Student Affairs. Students who fail to complete and submit all

of these forms will not be able to participate in clinical care activities until all forms are

completed.

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Immunization Policy

The FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine is committed to protecting its

students, staff, and patients from all potential health threats including infections.

As a prerequisite to registration, all students must comply with the immunization

policy regulations from the Florida International University Board of Trustees

regarding measles, mumps, rubella, meningitis, and hepatitis B immunity. The FIU

Board of Trustees requires that prior to registration, each applicant accepted for

admission must submit appropriate medical documentation to include, but not be

limited to, documentation of appropriate immunization required by the University.

Exceptions may be granted pursuant to University policies. The College follows the

most recent immunization requirements and recommendations as approved by the

Advisory Committee of Immunization Practices (ACIP) and endorsed by the Centers

for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) based on the guidelines located on their

website: www.cdc.gov/vaccines.

Prior to the first day of Orientation, medical students must provide written documentation

of immunity to all of the infectious diseases below, either by providing documentation

of having had the disease or documentation evidencing vaccination or positive blood

antibody titer. Students may receive immunizations at their own healthcare provider office,

ambulatory clinic, or at the General Medical Clinic at FIU’s University Health Services if

already enrolled as a medical student.

the basic immunization requirements for medical students include the following: 1. measles, mumps, rubella (mmr):

All students born after December 31, 1956 must present documented proof of

immunity to measles (Rubeola) and German measles (Rubella), as described below:

acceptable Proof of Immunity consists of:

a. Proof of two (2) vaccinations (doses) of MMR (Measles/Mumps/Rubella) received

at least 28 days apart or two doses of measles and one Rubella

− Vaccinations must have been received after your first birthday

− Vaccinations must have been received in 1969 or later

b. Proof of immunity by way of a blood test lab result (Measles and Rubella)

c. A written statement from a healthcare provider documenting a diagnosis of

measles (Rubeola) including the date of diagnosis and signed by the health care


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provider on his/her official stationery. This is acceptable for measles only and

does not apply to Rubella.

exemptions: You will be exempt from the pre-registration immunization

requirement for measles, mumps, and rubella, only if you meet any one of the

following three criteria:

a. You were born before January 1, 1957;

b. Medical Exemption: To claim a medical exemption, you must produce a letter

from a healthcare provider, signed on his/her stationery, stating the medical

reason(s) why you are not able to receive the measles and/or Rubella vaccine(s)

and the duration for the exemption (i.e., for a permanent or temporary medical

condition).

Temporary deferments are acceptable for the following conditions:

•Documentedpregnancyorfertilitytreatment

•Documentationofbreastfeeding

•Documentedillness

Deferment status requests must be submitted to the University Health Services

preferably at least four (4) weeks prior to orientation. The request must be signed

by a health care provider on his/her official stationery.

c. Religious Exemption: For details on how to claim religious exemption, please

visit the University Health Services website at studenthealth.fiu.edu.

To prevent delays in your ability to register for classes, all of the above documents should

be received by University Health Services at least four (4) weeks prior to registration.

2. meningitis

All students must present written documentation of receiving one dose of meningitis

vaccine (Menactra) as proof of vaccination/immunity to meningococcal meningitis.

Information about meningtis can be found in the Appendix.

− Students may elect to sign a waiver of liability acknowledging that they have

received and read information pertaining to meningitis and despite knowledge

of the risks, have decided to waive receiving the vaccine. The waiver of liability

can be obtained by contacting the University Health Services department or by

visiting the FIU University Health Services website at studenthealth.fiu.edu.

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Students who choose the waiver option are advised that if there is an outbreak

of meningococcal meningitis on campus or at the clinical site where the student

currently is located, he/she may not be allowed to enter campus, attend classes

or visit the clinical site, until the risk of infection has been reduced as determined

by the Miami-Dade Health Department.

3. Hepatitis b

Students must show documented proof of vaccination/immunity to Hepatitis B, as

described below.

acceptable Proof of Immunity to Hepatitis b consists of both:

a. A total of three doses of hepatitis B vaccine; and

b. Proof of immunity with a positive hepatitis B antibody blood test

− If not already completed, the student will be responsible to complete vaccination

with all 3 doses within the first 6 months of classes.

− Proof of receiving at the least the first dose of the Hepatitis B immunization

series is required before the end of orientation

Waivers:

− Students declining to receive vaccination for hepatitis B must present a signed

waiver of liability acknowledging that they have received and read information

pertaining to hepatitis B and despite knowledge of the risks have decided to

waive receiving the vaccine. The waiver of liability can be obtained by contacting

the University Health Services department or by visiting the FIU University Health

Services website at: studenthealth.fiu.edu.

additional immunization requirements for the Herbert Wertheim College of medicine:In addition to the above state-mandated immunization requirements, the College requires

proof of immunity to the following, as established by the Advisory Committee of Immunization

Practices (ACIP) and endorsed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

1. tetanus/diphtheria immunization:

a. Based on Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, matriculating

students who have not had a tetanus booster within the past two years should

receive the Tdap vaccine.


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b. A single dose of Tdap must be given for adults aged 19 through 64 years who

have not received a dose of Tdap previously.

c. Afterwards, adults should receive Td booster every 10 years; the booster can be

given as early as 2 years since last Td dose if uncertain of the last Td dose.

2. Varicella (chickenpox): Medical students are required to provide documentation

of a positive varicella antibody titer as proof of immunity to varicella. Prior to having

the antibody test, student should have previously received two doses of Varivax

vaccine. Note: Second dose should be taken at least 4-8 weeks following first dose.

3. influenza vaccine: An influenza vaccine is required for all medical students to be

administered in the Fall of each year during which the student is enrolled in the

Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine.

4. PPd screening:

a. Proof of Screening. Proof of annual PPD screening and/or testing is required

for all students.

b. baseline two-Step Process required. The HWCOM follows CDC guidelines

which state that “for baseline testing, a two-step procedure for persons without

a PPD test in the past 12 months can be used to minimize the likelihood of

confusing reactivity from an old infection (boosting) with reactivity from a recent

infection (conversion.)”

− Unless a student has proof of having a current two-step PPD test (defined

as at least 2 intracutaneous Mantoux tests, given a minimum of 1-3 weeks

apart, within the previous 12 months) or history of a positive PPD at the time of

matriculation, he/she is required to have the two-step test completed prior to

the first clinical experience.

− If the student has had at least one PPD done in the past 12 months, one test will

be sufficient to meet the two-step test requirement.

c. annual PPd test. Once the two-step test is done initially, students are required

to have one annual PPD test. The two-step test is generally a one-time process.

d. Prior Positive PPd test. If a student has documentation of a previous positive

PPD test, proof of at least one baseline chest x-ray is required. After that, the

student is required to complete the tuberculosis symptom screen annually in lieu

of the PPD test.

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– In 2005, the FDA approved a blood assay for M. tuberculosis, Quantiferon

Gold (QFT-G). The College is not requiring this test currently. In the event

the CDC recommendations and/or requirements change or this assay is

required from a College clinical teaching site, students will be notified.

e. PPd Positive tests. Students who are found to be PPD positive by initial

testing will be required to have a baseline chest x-ray and an evaluation by their

private physician for further recommendations, including possible TB treatment.

Decisions will be made on an individual basis as to the ability of a student on

active TB treatment to pursue coursework and/or clinical rotations, based on

the recommendations.

Send immunization documents directly to university Health Services. All immunization documents must be submitted to the Immunization Department at the

University Health Services Complex, room 101, on the Modesto A. Maidique Campus

for processing at least four (4) weeks prior to the first day of medical student orientation.

Medical students may document receipt of their immunizations using the College’s

“Immunization Documentation” form or substitute a similar form from their healthcare

provider. The form must carry the original signature of a physician or a licensed medical

practitioner and the license number or office stamp with address.

unable to complete an immunization?In the event that the student is unable to complete an immunization, series of immunizations,

or screenings as required for any medical or non-medical reason, the student will be

required to sign a formal declination acknowledging the risks and provide a physician’s

note documenting the medical exemption. The signed formal declination also states that,

should a local outbreak occur of the infectious disease to which a student is not immune,

the student will not be permitted to participate in any clinical care activity until the epidemic

is cleared by the Miami-Dade Department of Health.


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Health Insurance

Providing care to patients poses inherent risks of acquiring a communicable disease.

Therefore, all students enrolled at the Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College

of Medicine are required to maintain continuous health insurance coverage that provides

benefits to meet the established minimum standards. Such insurance coverage shall be

maintained continuously throughout a student’s attendance at the College. Prior to Orientation

and annually thereafter, all students must submit the “Verification of Health Insurance Form”

to the Office of Student Affairs, attesting to the fact that they are currently covered by a health

insurance policy that meets the basic requirements as outlined below. Students are responsible

for immediately notifying the OSA should the status of their health insurance coverage change

for any reason (e.g., voluntary change in policy, non-payment, etc.).

Students who need to purchase health insurance are eligible to participate in the group PPO

student health insurance plan which is available to all FIU students and reviewed by the FIU

University Health Services Department. The current university student health insurance plan

is administered through Collegiate Risk Management. Students should contact University

Health Services at 305-348-3080, or visit the website: www.fiu.edu/~health to learn

more about the current group health insurance plan available to registered FIU graduate

students. Students are responsible for all charges related to both the insurance premium

and all out-of-pocket medical expenses for services.

Prior to Orientation week, all students must submit the Insurance Verification Form to

the Office of Student Affairs attesting to the fact that they currently are covered by a

health insurance policy that meets certain basic requirements. Students are responsible

for immediately notifying the OSA should the status of their health insurance coverage

change for any reason (e.g., voluntary change in policy, non-payment, cancellation, etc.).

minimum basic insurance requirements:

1. Coverage Period: Coverage must include the entire academic year, including

annual breaks, regardless of the student’s terms of enrollment. The policy must

provide continuous coverage for the entire period the insured is enrolled as an

eligible student. Payment of benefits must be renewable

2. maximum benefit of $100,000 per person per calendar year.

- Preferable: Maximum coverage of $200,000 for covered injuries/illnesses per

policy year

- Preferable: Minimum coverage of $50,000 per accident or illness

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3. deductible per calendar year: Maximum of $100 per person per policy year.

- Preferable: An out-of-pocket financial incentive to receive non-emergency

outpatient primary care services at the FIU University Health Services clinics

4. basic benefits: Room, board, hospital services, physician fees, surgeon fees,

ambulance, outpatient services, and outpatient customary fees for network provider

services to be paid at 80% or more of usual, customary, reasonable charge per

accident or illness, after deductible is met, and at least 60% of usual, customary, and

reasonable charge for out-of-network providers per accident or illness

5. Physician office visits in private office location: maximum of $25 copay for

primary care and $40 copay for specialist

6. inpatient mental Health Care: Must be paid at 80% in-network or at least 60%

out-of-network of the usual and customary fees with a minimum 30-day cap per

benefit period.

- Preferable: In Network Mental Health (inpatient and outpatient) – paid as any

other sickness;

7. outpatient mental Health Care (psychotherapy): Coverage of at least 80%

in-network or at least 60% out-of-network of the usual and customary fees for a

minimum of 20 outpatient sessions per year, preferably without a dollar maximum.

8. maternity benefits: Must be treated as any other temporary medical condition

and paid at no less than 80% of usual and customary fees in-network or 60% out-

of-network.

9. Prescription medication: 100% after $15 copay for generic medications and

$30 copay for brand name prescription medications provided at in-network

pharmacies. Must have at least $1,000 calendar year coverage, preferably to

include contraceptives.

10. additional benefits:

• Insurance Carrier must have an “A” rating or above per Part 62.14(c)(1)

of Section 22 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

• Policy must not unreasonably exclude coverage for perils inherent to the

student’s program of study.

• Policymustprovidein-networkphysician,hospital,diagnostic,andtherapeutic

coverage in local facilities for non-emergency outpatient and inpatient

services in the South Florida area (e.g., Miami-Dade and/or Broward Counties).


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• Policymustprovideat leastpartialcoverageforroutineimmunizations,health

screenings, substance abuse treatment, maternity, emergency dental coverage,

out-of-area coverage, and coverage while on leave of absence.

Disability Insurance

Because of the nature of and the expense of training for a career in medicine, students

are required to enroll in the group disability insurance policy provided through the Herbert

Wertheim College of Medicine. This requirement is designed to protect the student’s

investment in his/her medical education and training should a disability occur that would

not allow the student to complete medical school. Students must pay the required

premium for the annual disability insurance plan during Orientation and annually thereafter.

All HWCOM students are required to enroll in a disability insurance plan to cover disability

that might occur during their educational training period. Students are responsible for

payment of this fee and are informed about this requirement prior to Orientation. Disability

premiums are collected during Orientation week (in the form of personal check or money

order) by the Office of Student Affairs.

Criminal Background Checks

Upon acceptance to the College and before the first day of Orientation, all students must

pass a criminal background check conducted by a service selected by the Association of

American Medical Colleges. Findings in background checks may affect the student being

admitted as well as a student’s ability to participate in clinical experiences and complete

the program, and/or obtain a medical license. During the student’s tenure at the College,

if a student is arrested, charged or convicted of a felony or misdemeanor, he or she must

disclose such an event to the Executive Associate Dean of Student Affairs. Background

checks are also performed by the State on application for licensure. Failure to disclose

this information can result in a required appearance before the Board of Medicine and a

significant delay (or possible denial) of a medical license.

B. DIvERSITy

HWCOM Policy on Diversity

The FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine considers diversity an integral part of the

entire academic enterprise. Blending of different life and cultural experiences is of prime

importance in the selection of faculty and staff and in the selection of medical students and

education of future physicians.

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Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine seeks to foster a broad and diverse community of

faculty, staff, and students to enrich the educational environment and expand the knowledge

base for our students. This policy is parallel to the policy of Florida International University.

The value of this diversity emphasis for Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine educational

programs and staffing will be realized by the production of culturally competent physicians

who can serve South Florida’s diverse population.

The HWCOM Diversity Policy was developed by the Dean, Executive Associate Deans,

and other senior leadership in consultation with HWCOM General Counsel. The Diversity

Policy is made known to current and prospective applicants, students, employees, faculty,

and staff through promulgation in the HWCOM Student Handbook, Faculty Handbook,

and website.

HWCOM follows the policies of its parent university with regard to enrolling a diverse

student population and hiring a diverse faculty and staff. The mission of FIU’s Division of

Human Resources is to provide outstanding customer service and quality leadership to

the University community as well as to recruit and retain a diverse workforce (http://hr.fiu.

edu). The university’s commitment to diversity is reflected in codified policies, including

the Affirmative Action Plan and the FIU policy for recruitment and retention. Excerpts from

those policies are provided below.

FIU Affirmative Action Plan Policy Statement:

Our University has special opportunities in the area of affirmative action in employment.

These opportunities arise from our location in a multiethnic and multicultural urban center.

Our ultimate affirmative action goal is to achieve a work force that equitably reflects our

diverse community.

The University recognizes the importance of eliminating employment barriers and has

established a non-discriminatory policy for its employees and applicants for employment.

This policy is applied without regard to a person’s race, color, sex, religion, creed, national

origin, disability, marital status, political opinions or affiliations, disabled veteran status,

sexual orientation, or age, except as provided by law. It is designed to assure each

applicant or employee an equal opportunity in recruitment, examination, appointment,

training, promotion, compensation, retention, and/or other employment practices.


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FIU Policy 1705.010: Recruitment & Selection

Abstract: The purpose of this policy is to ensure that Florida International University will

attract and retain a diverse and the most highly qualified workforce available to effectuate its

academic, research, and service mission. It is our intention to make public any information

about employment opportunities at the university to as many people as necessary to

ensure compliance with the EEO and other applicable laws.

Under the guidance of Florida International University Recruitment Services, HWCOM

works diligently to attract, recruit, and retain the most qualified and diverse candidates to

support strategic, academic, and operational excellence. To underscore the importance

of a diverse faculty, staff, and student body, HWCOM recently hired an Assistant Dean for

Diversity. Among the duties of this position are:

• Developingstrategiesforrecruitmentandretentionofadiversestudentbody,

• Developingstrategiesforrecruitmentandretentionofadiversefacultyandstaff,

• Ensuring HWCOM’s diversity programs are aligned with college and University

strategic plans,

• Collaborating with HWCOM’s academic departments to create and evaluate

diversity initiatives,

• Developing educational and training sessions for faculty, staff, and students to

ensure cultural competency, and

• Participatinginlocal,state,andnationaleffortstoincreasediversityinthehealthcare

profession.

diversity among StudentsDiversity at HWCOM is institution-specific and multidimensional, assessing academic

background/achievement, personal characteristics (e.g., race/ethnicity, gender,

socioeconomic status), personal attributes (e.g., motivation for medicine and for

FIU, leadership, motivation, compassion, languages spoken, economic/educational

disadvantaged status), and personal experiences (e.g., community service, clinical

experiences, overcoming hardships). The AAMC defines populations underrepresented

in medicine as “those racial and ethnic populations that are underrepresented in the

medical profession relative to their numbers in the general population” (http://www.aamc.

org/meded/urm/statusofnewdefinition.pdf). However, the AAMC has left it up to medical

schools to define their general population.

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The HWCOM Admissions Committee makes its recommendations in accordance

with the Admissions Committee Manual and with educational goals articulated in the

HWCOM mission statement. A goal of the College of Medicine is to enroll students

from demographically diverse backgrounds who will contribute to the enhancement of

the educational experience for all medical students. That goal reaps the core benefits

of improving education, enhancing civic values, and preparing students to meet the

challenges of a changing world as described by the Association of American Medical

Colleges (AAMC) in Roadmap to Diversity: Key Legal and Educational Policy Foundations

for Medical Schools (2008). The College of Medicine’s admission policies regarding diversity

are within the legal framework and educational policy foundations outlined in chapter one

of this publication. Consistent with the AAMC’s Roadmap to Diversity: Integrating Holistic

Review Practices into Medical School Admission Processes (2010), HWCOM admissions

criteria are institution-specific, broad-based, mission-driven, and applied equitably across

the entire candidate pool.

HWCOM uses the resources of the AAMC Holistic Review Project: Aligning Admissions to

Mission, and is among six medical schools selected to participate in Beta testing the AAMC

Holistic Review Admissions Workshop—a collaborative learning experience developed to

help medical schools enhance student body diversity as a means to achieve excellence.

Holistic Review supports HWCOM’S key diversity goals of enriching the educational

environment for medical students; ensuring that a diverse voice is heard in class, clinics,

and research laboratories; and training culturally competent physicians. Additionally, FIU

has a long history of enrolling a highly diverse student population. HWCOM leverages this

strength of its parent university through pipeline programs targeting the diverse pool of

well-qualified FIU undergraduate students.


Technical Standards

Candidates for the M.D. degree must be able to fully and promptly perform the essential

functions in each of the following categories: Observation, Communication, Motor,

Intellectual, and Behavioral/Social. However, it is recognized that degrees of ability vary

widely between individuals. Individuals are encouraged to discuss their disabilities with

the Director of Counseling and Wellness Center of the College and the FIU Disability

Resource Center to determine whether there is a reasonable accommodation available to

train and function effectively as a physician. (Please also see the Students with Disabilities

Policy.) The Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine is


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committed to enabling its students with disabilities a reasonable accommodation to

complete the course of study leading to the medical degree.

• Communicateeffectivelyandsensitivelywithpatients,healthprofessionals,teachers,

staff, and peers in settings where communication is typically oral, or written, or when

the time span available for communication is limited.

• Accuratelyobserveapatientfromadistanceandatcloserange,obtainamedical

history directly from the patient, and directly observe a patient’s medical condition.

• Acquire,assimilate,interpret,integrate,andapplyinformationfromdirectobservation

and oral communication, written messages, films, slides, microscope, imaging

science, ECG readouts, and other media.

• Performdiagnosticandemergencymaneuversandprocedures,suchaspalpation,

percussion, and auscultation, airway management, cardio-pulmonary resuscitation,

and suturing, as well as assisting in surgery.

• Performproblem-solving tasksquicklyandefficiently inanenvironment thatmay

change rapidly, without warning, and/or in unpredictable ways.

• Comprehendthree-dimensionalandspatialrelationships.

• Carryoutprocedures involved in learning thesciences fundamental tomedicine.

This includes the ability to participate fully in activities dealing with curriculum

requirements in the classroom, laboratory, and clinical setting.

Students With Disabilities

The Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine adopts the FIU policies and procedures

regarding students with disabilities. The FIU policies and procedures are written below.

Students with specific questions regarding the FIU policies governing students with

disabilities may contact the University’s Disability Resource Center (DRC). Medical

students with disabilities who wish to receive accommodations based on a disability must

notify the College’s Office of Student Affairs and register with the FIU DRC.

definitions

Student - A person who is currently registered for classes at Florida International

University in accordance with the requirements and procedures of the Office of

Student Affairs, or a prospective student who seeks information or assistance prior

to being admitted or registering for classes.

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disability - FIU DRC adopts the definition of “disability” as set forth in the Americans

with Disabilities Act of 1990, USC 12101, Sec. 23(2), as being “(A) a physical or

mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major activities of such

individual; (B) a record of such an impairment; or (C) being regarded as having such

an impairment.”

temporary disability - As the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990 and the

Rehabilitation Act of 1973 only extend to persons with permanent disabilities and as

it is recognized that students with a temporary disability may also need appropriate

assistance, FIU DRC defines a “temporary disability” as one which, for a stated

period of time, will limit one or more of a person’s major life activities. The existence

of the disability and the period of time it will last must be certified by a physician’s

report or other appropriate documentation. The DRC will use its discretion to

determine if the extent of the disability is sufficient to warrant the services requested.

ProceduresMedical students may receive services from DRC through self-referral or by referral of

the College faculty, OSA Deans, or the Director of the Student Counseling and Wellness

Center. As a condition to receiving services from the FIU DRC, students are required

to complete a Student Information Intake Form indicating identification information

(name, address, Panther ID number, etc.), the nature of the disability, auxiliary aids or

other accommodations requested, and other pertinent information needed by the DRC

to provide services to the student. The student must provide the DRC with current,

appropriate documentation certifying the existence of a disability (physicians report,

neuro-psycho evaluation, audiograms, etc.) and the functional limitations imposed by

the disability in order to be entitled to services. Students who contact the office are

given an appointment to speak to a DRC counselor and advised that they will need

to provide documentation of their disability prior to receiving services. Students are

asked to complete the Student Information Intake Form at or before the time of the

appointment. At the meeting with the counselor, the student’s specific needs will be

discussed and an appropriate program to assist that student will be established. The

student is also advised of any additional requirements which may be necessary and told

how to access the services of the Center. Counseling is provided by the director and

coordinators. General and common questions are frequently answered by the clerical

staff, where possible.

fees/Charges: No fees are charged for the services provided. However, the

student must bear the cost of providing the documentation of his/her disability.


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Permits/identification required: The documentation of a disability, is

required to certify entitlement to DRC services. Documentation must be issued

by an appropriate professional or agency such as a physician, optometrist,

audiologist, psychologist, or other health care professional, the Division of Blind

Services, a prior educational institution, etc. Documentation must be current

and complete. The DRC reserves the right to request additional documentation

of disability in the event the documentation presented is insufficient to establish

the existence of a disability or if the documentation fails to support the type of

aids and services requested.

records management: The completed Student Information Intake Form and

supporting documentation are kept in a file under the student’s name in the Disability

Resource Center. Information about prospective students may be kept in a common

Prospective Student’s file until all information is received and/or the student enrolls.

exemptions: In the event a student’s disability is readily apparent, and the need for

services is immediate, the DRC will not withhold services because the student has not

provided current or complete documentation of the disability. The Director of the DRC, or

the Director’s designee at his or her discretion will provide services, if the documentation

provided is sufficient to indicate the need for services but requires supplementation

or updating. This exception is conditioned upon the student providing the required

documentation within a reasonable period of time, not to exceed three months.

Policy Violations: In the event a student fails to comply with this policy, the FIU

DRC will notify the student of the requirements necessary to bring him or her

into compliance. If after appropriate notification, the student still fails to meet the

requirements, the DRC will cease providing services.

forms/online ProcessesStudent Intake Form https://drc.fiu.edu/forms.htm

In addition to the procedures described above, the DRC and the College require the

following when a medical student is requesting an accommodation:

1. The DRC staff may prepare a confidential letter addressed to the Assistant Dean

for Student Affairs (Counseling and Communities) indicating that the medical

documentation supports specific accommodations with the written consent of the

student. The student’s consent will allow the Assistant Dean to discuss with the

Executive Associate Dean for Student Affairs, and/or the Director of the Student

Counseling and Wellness Center, as appropriate. The medical student signs a

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statement at the DRC indicating agreement with suggested accommodations and

understanding of his/her responsibility. The medical student will then present the letter

to the Assistant Dean for Student Affairs (Counseling and Communities) or designee.

2. The DRC prints two copies of the letter and retains a copy as a record of the meeting,

eligibility and accommodation request. The other copy is given to the student.

3. The medical student will schedule an appointment to meet with the Assistant Dean

for Student Affairs within ten (10) business days to present the letter. The student is

encouraged to keep a copy of this document.

4. Once accommodations have been confirmed, the student is to schedule an

appointment with the Student Counseling and Wellness Center.

5. The Director of the Student Counseling and Wellness will be the professional

representative responsible for facilitating accommodations for medical school

students who have been determined eligible for services. Professional staff

members from both the DRC and the Student Counseling and Wellness Center

will explain to the student how the accommodations will be facilitated usually at

the same meeting.

examinationsStudents who qualify for exam accommodations will follow DRC’s Testing Center

policies, which can be found at http://drc.fiu.edu. If the examination is not taken at

the DRC, the College (in collaboration with the DRC) will coordinate the provision of

other accommodations. This might also occur for quizzes or shorter, in-class exams.

The student is responsible for notifying the instructor at least five (5) working days

prior to the quiz/exam if on-site accommodations are desired. Except for extenuating

circumstances, all exams requiring accommodation will be administered at the DRC

or the College.

A special situation arises with the NBME examinations. Since these examinations

must be ordered well in advance of the test date, students who are requesting to take

an NBME exam under special accommodations should begin the process at least five

(5) weeks prior to the date the exam is to be administered.

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D. ACCREDITATION

Accreditation Statement

The Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) is the accrediting body for medical

schools in the United States and solely determines the accreditation status of every

medical program leading to the Doctor of Medicine degree. To be accredited, a medical

program must meet comprehensive standards that answer to the quality, integrity and

educational objectives required by the LCME. The academic program is structured to

provide students with an education that meets the faculty’s expected standards for the

attainment of the Doctor of Medicine degree.

Accreditation for a new medical school is a five-step process. The last two steps of

the LCME guidelines intentionally coincide with the progress of the inaugural class

of students though their program of study. Currently, the Herbert Wertheim College

of Medicine at Florida International University has reached the third step and been

awarded Preliminary Accreditation status. The fourth step in the accreditation process

is called Provisional Accreditation, and it is anticipated to be awarded to the HWCOM

in 2011. The fifth and final step in accreditation is called “Full Accreditation” and that

is anticipated to coincide with the graduation of the inaugural class in 2013. According

to the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), a student who

completes the graduation requirements for the M.D. degree from a medical school in the

process of completing full accreditation by the LCME is eligible for complete consideration

in applying for accredited residency training programs. Additional information regarding

accreditation can be found in the “Overview and Accreditation Procedures” sections of

the LCME site located at www.lcme.org.

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HWCom Compact between teachers and learners of medicine:

Adapted from the Association of American Medical Colleges

Preparation for a career in medicine requires the acquisition of a large fund of knowledge

and a variety of professional skills inherent in the doctor/patient relationship. The following

are the guiding principles of this contract:

1. respect. Respect for all individuals is fundamental to the practice of medicine.

Mutual respect between learners, as novice members of the medical profession,

and their teachers, as experienced and esteemed professionals, is essential for

nurturing respect.

2. duty. Medical educators have a duty, not only to convey the knowledge and

professional skills required for the delivery of the contemporary standard of care

required of physicians, but also to inculcate the values and attitudes required for

preserving the medical profession’s social contract across generations.

3. integrity. The learning environments conducive to conveying professional values

must foster integrity. Students learn enduring lessons of professionalism by observing

and emulating role models who epitomize authentic professional values and attitudes.

guiding Principles of the educational Compact

The College is committed to promoting academic and professional success for learners

and teachers at all levels. The achievement of such success is dependent on an

environment free of actions and behaviors which can undermine the important missions

of our institution. An atmosphere of mutual respect, collegiality, fairness, and trust is

essential. Although both teachers and learners bear significant responsibility in creating

and maintaining this atmosphere, teachers also assume responsibility for evaluating

student work and modeling appropriate professional behaviors. Teachers must be ever

mindful of this responsibility in their interactions with their colleagues, patients, and the

students whose education has been entrusted to them.

HWCom responsibilities of teachers:

1. To treat all learners with respect and fairness.

2. To treat all learners equally regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, national origin,

religion, disability, or sexual orientation.

3. To provide current materials in an effective format for learning.


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4. To be on time for didactic, investigational, and clinical encounters.

5. To provide timely feedback with constructive suggestions and opportunities for

improvement or remediation, when needed.

6. To grade/evaluate on factors related to performance, effort, or level of achievement.

7. To be available for contact and timely response through various means of

communication, including official university email, cellular phone, and accurate

home phone and mailing address.

8. To respond to official email communications within 72 hours.

9. To maintain high professional standards in all interactions with learners, patients,

colleagues, and staff.

10. To refrain from requesting learners to perform inappropriate personal errands

unrelated to the didactic, investigational, or clinical situation at hand.

11. To nurture both the intellectual and personal development of learners.

12. To pursue confidential mental and physical support for any conditions that might

compromise the learning environment and/or patient care.

13. To abide by the values of HWCOM.

14. To adhere to all of the rules and responsibilities outlined in the HWCOM Student

Handbook.

HWCom responsibilities of learners:

1. To treat all fellow learners and teachers with respect and fairness.

2. To treat all fellow learners and teachers equally regardless of age, gender, race,

ethnicity, national origin, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.

3. To commit the time and energy necessary to achieve the goals and objectives of

each course.

4. To be on time for didactic, investigational, and clinical encounters.

5. To communicate concerns and suggestions about the curriculum, didactic methods,

teachers, or the learning environment in a respectful and professional manner.

6. To maintain high professional standards in all interactions with fellow learners,

teachers, and staff, consistent with the HWCOM and FIU Student Standards of

Conduct and the Honor Code.

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7. To notify the appropriate faculty and staff members in a timely manner of any

problems that adversely affects the learning environment.

8. To participate in the process of program evaluation, improvement, and development.

9. To respond to official email communications within 72 hours.

10. To be available for contact and timely response through various means of

communication, including official university email, cellular phone, and accurate

home phone and mailing address.

11. To take time to nurture one’s own intellectual and personal development.

12. To pursue confidential mental and physical support for any conditions that might

compromise achievement of one’s educational goals or patient care.

13. To abide by the values of HWCOM.

14. To adhere to all of the rules and responsibilities outlined in the HWCOM Student

Handbook.

Students, residents, faculty, and staff are informed about HWCOM policies regarding

teacher-learner responsibilities, the Compact Between Teachers and Learners of Medicine,

and the Standards of Conduct for Medical Students via the HWCOM website, Student

Handbook, and Faculty Bylaws. HWCOM sponsors the following training sessions to

educate both students and faculty about these policies.

Student training

• TheHWCOMCompactBetweenTeachersandLearnersofMedicine--Orientation

Week and the Student Handbook

• SexualHarassment:onehourtrainingprogramduringPeriod1andtheHWCOM

Student Handbook

• StandardsofConduct:OrientationWeekandtheHWCOMStudentHandbook

• Professionalism: Orientation Week and the strand on Professionalism in the

curriculum


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faculty training

• The Compact Between Teachers and Learners of Medicine (required reading);

HWCOM Student Handbook

• SexualHarassment:periodictrainingsessions(requiredbyFIU)

• StandardsofConduct(requiredreading);HWCOMStudentHandbook

• Professionalism(requiredreading):HWCOMFacultyHandbook

The Doctor of Medicine degree program is designed for faculty to primarily teach students

for the first three years and for residents to interact with students primarily during clinical

rotations of the fourth year.

Medical Student complaints relating to violations of the Compact Between Teachers and

Learners of Medicine are handled in a manner specific to the complaint. Grievances relating

to academic issues are handled through the Grievance Procedure, which is documented

in the Student Handbook. Sexual Harassment complaints are handled through the Florida

International University Board of Trustees regulation FIU-104. In addition, medical students

may discuss issues of violations of the Compact Between Teachers and Learners of

Medicine policy with any of the deans in the Office of Student Affairs.

F. ATTENDANCE

Attendance Policy

Professionalism is a major component of the College’s curriculum. Therefore, medical

students as future professionals should conduct themselves appropriately in all

curricular activities, including classroom work, laboratory work, and clinical experiences.

The professionalism of a medical student includes arriving to educational activities

on time, using laptop computers only for course work during the educational activity,

and minimizing disruptions to the educational exercise. Students are accountable and

personally responsible for attending all educational activities including large and small

group sessions and lectures, labs, clinical experiences, examinations, etc. Faculty may

establish specific attendance and punctuality requirements for certain courses and

clerkships by notifying students of the requirements in the course syllabus or by an

alternate means of written communication. Academically successful medical students

are expected to attend all educational activities to best prepare them to meet the

curricular goals leading to the M.D. degree.

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Students are expected to attend all scheduled activities on time and ready to begin. If a

first or second period student has an emergency that prevents him/her from attending a

scheduled activity, he/she is to call and notify the Office of Student Affairs using the “After

Hours” Emergency Phone line (305) 348-0696 and also inform the faculty member for that

activity. Students should attempt to schedule personal appointments and activities during

times to minimize absences during required classes and other curricular assignments.

However, if such activities are unavoidable, students must request to be excused in

advance from such classes and clerkships as early as possible. Students must complete

the “Excused Absence Approval” form (see Appendix) and discuss a plan to complete all

missed course work with the faculty course directors as pertinent, which is acknowledged

by their signature(s) on this form. The form must be sent to the Office of Student Affairs for

final approval by Executive Associate Dean for Students Affairs, or designee.

It is important that students realize that their absence or tardiness negatively impacts a

number of other people. Unexcused absences demonstrate unprofessional behavior by the

student. Attendance, including tardiness, is part of the evaluation for professionalism, and

poor evaluations may result in decreased grades and, in severe cases, referral to the MSEPC.

Religious Observance(Adapted from the FIU Policy)

The College recognizes that students, faculty and staff observe a variety of religious faiths

and practices. Although many religious holidays are observed with time off, a few of

the religious days of observance may be part of the academic calendar. The College

respects the religious beliefs and practices of its students and seeks to accommodate

them within the requirements of the academic schedule. As a result, a student who

must be absent from a class requirement will not be penalized. Students who anticipate

absence should notify the OSA and the supervising faculty in advance.

The College will follow the established FIU policy regarding absences due to personal observances of religious holidays. A list of the dates for Christian, Jewish, and Islam holidays for the next four years can be found in the Appendix.

To review the policy, access the FIU Student Handbook at: http://www.fiu.edu/~camplife.

Policy for Medical Excuse from Clinical ActivitiesStudents must actively participate in clinical activities for effective learning to take place. Therefore, all medical students are required to attend all clinical assignments unless excused from attendance.


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Excuses from attendance are automatic when the health and safety of the student and the student’s classmates might be adversely affected. Students should contact the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) to explain absences, preferably in advance the OSA will then inform the clerkship director to make appropriate arrangements for patient care coverage. If the length of absence is long enough to adversely affect the student’s academic performance, the “Leave of Absence” Policy will take effect.

All students who are absent due to medical illness or injury are expected to seek medical care and obtain written documentation to verify absence. Unexcused absences demonstrate unprofessional behavior. Attendance, including tardiness, is part of the evaluation for professionalism and poor evaluations may result in decreased grades and, in severe cases, referral to the MSEPC.

In the case of planned absences (e.g., to attend meetings or family events such as weddings, etc.), students must meet with the course or clerkship director as far in advance as possible to discuss the requests and obtain the permission of the course or clerkship director to be absent from assigned responsibilities. Once permission is obtained for the planned absence, the student must notify the Office of Student Affairs and the Office of Academic Affairs by completing the “Excused Absence Approval” form.

Leave of Absence Policy A. Leave of Absence Policy OverviewA leave of absence is a temporary period of non-enrollment and may either be voluntary or involuntary.

1. Provisions relating to any leave of absence:

a) Students must keep their health insurance policy current.

b) Medical students should be aware that taking a leave of absence may affect student loan deferment/repayment status, housing, health insurance coverage, or financial aid eligibility. Prior to applying for a leave of absence, students should investigate these implications as they pertain to their personal situations.

c) If conditions have been set for a student’s eligibility to return from a leave, particularly if returning from a Summary Involuntary Withdrawal, the student must demonstrate satisfaction of those conditions prior to return date.

d) Students must complete all course requirements within a six (6) year period from the time of matriculation in order to receive the M.D. degree.

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B. voluntary Leaves of AbsenceStudents may request a voluntary leave of absence for any one of three (3) reasons: personal, health/pregnancy, or educational/research. Students requesting a voluntary leave of absence must prepare a written statement and send it to the Office of Student Affairs. The student must include the following information in his/her letter:

• Reasonfortheabsence

• Student’splantoacquireinformationmissedwhileonleave

• Arrangementbythestudentforcoverageofallclinicalorcourseresponsibilities

• Arrangementfornotificationofallfacultyandotherstudentsaffectedbytheabsence

The maximum amount of time granted for a voluntary leave of absence is twelve

(12) months. The Executive Associate Dean for Student Affairs or designee is

responsible for granting or denying the request, with or without special conditions.

Personal leave of absenceA personal leave of absence may be requested for personal or family matters, financial

issues, or academic issues which do not rise to the level that the MSEPC (MSEPC)

would take action. A student requesting a personal leave of absence must submit a

letter outlining the reasons for the request to the Executive Associate Dean for Student

Affairs or designee as soon as practicable. The Executive Associate Dean for Student

Affairs or designee is responsible for granting (with or without restrictions) or denying

the request.

Health/Pregnancy leave of absencea health-related leave of absence requires a statement from the student’s physician

regarding the need for the absence, the diagnosis and prognosis of the illness, duration

of treatment, and specific dates that student is required to miss classes. The request

must be submitted to the Executive Associate Dean for Student Affairs or designee. The

Executive Associate Dean for Student Affairs or designee is responsible for granting (with

or without restrictions) or denying the request.

Reinstatement must be approved by the Executive Associate Dean for Student Affairs or

designee after receiving written clearance from the physician that the student is again ready

to handle the academic rigors of the College’s curriculum. While the physician’s statement

of readiness may be sufficient, the College reserves the right to require a second opinion

regarding a medical student’s physical or psychological readiness to return to classes and

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clinical care service. This consultation will come from a physician approved by the Herbert

Wertheim College of Medicine, and any cost involved will be borne by the College.

Pregnancy leave of absence: Any pregnant student may request a leave of absence

from classes and clinical responsibilities for medical reasons at any time during gestation.

The amount of leave time granted will be primarily dependent upon the recommendations

of the student’s obstetrician. Typically, the leave time is usually ten (10) weeks (four

antepartum weeks and six postpartum weeks); however, complications during pregnancy

and/or during delivery may require a greater amount of time or the student may request

additional leave time. Students are required to submit a written request to the Office of

Student Affairs and the Office of Academic Affairs as far in advance as possible. In addition,

students must notify the following faculty members: course directors of all classes, clinical

faculty supervisors for preceptorships and emergency department rotations, and the

Clinical Affiliate Deans responsible for her current clerkship during Period 3 or Period 4,

as applicable.

As a general guideline, if the student is absent for a period of ten (10) weeks or less, all

attempts will be made to provide tutoring to minimize the impact of her class absences;

however, students must realize that this may not always be possible or appropriate

depending on the type of course(s) missed. If the student is absent for a period of more

than 10 weeks, it will be necessary to follow the established guidelines for submitting a

formal “Medical Leave of Absence”. All students must realize that all course work must

be satisfactorily completed within six (6) years from the date of matriculation in order to

graduate from the FIU HWCOM with the doctorate of Medicine (M.D.) degree.

educational/research leave of absenceAn educational/research leave of absence may be granted to allow students opportunities

to enhance their medical school experience by participating in educational and/or research

activities at other institutions throughout the world. The student requesting such a leave

must submit a letter from an appropriate College faculty member recommending the

leave to the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs or designee. The Executive

Associate Dean for Academic Affairs or designee is responsible for granting (with or

without restrictions) or denying the request.

The Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs or designee will monitor the student’s

time spent in the educational/research activities and notify the Office of Student Affairs

when the student will return to registered student status with the College.

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C. Involuntary Leaves of Absence

1. Summary involuntary WithdrawalA student who poses a serious threat of imminent or serious physical harm to

himself/ herself or others at the College will be involuntarily withdrawn from the

College (“Summary Involuntary Withdrawal”) by the Dean of the College or designee,

upon appropriate consultation with a team consisting of the Executive Associate

Dean of Student Affairs, the Director of Counseling and Wellness, and with any other

College faculty or staff member, or their respective designees, as deemed necessary

by the Dean of the College. The Dean or designee reserves the right to impose an

immediate and temporary withdrawal, prior to the review of all information. In such

cases, the student shall be offered an opportunity to discuss the matter with the

Dean of the College or designee, immediately prior thereto and shall be offered the

opportunity to provide documentation from an appropriate healthcare provider who

has conducted a proper assessment of the student and has concluded that the

student does not pose a serious imminent threat of harm to himself/herself or others.

The student will, if practical in the judgment of the Dean of the College or designee,

be referred to the Director of Counseling and Wellness who will assess whether the

student poses a serious danger of imminent or serious physical harm to himself/

herself or others, or refer the student to an appropriately credentialed psychiatrist

or psychologist for examination. If referred, the psychologist or psychiatrist will

examine and assess whether the student poses a serious or imminent threat of

harm to himself/herself or others. If the student is examined by a psychiatrist or

psychologist, he or she must submit the report of findings to the Dean of the College

and the Director of Counseling and Wellness.

A student subject to the Summary Involuntary Withdrawal is entitled to the following:

a) The opportunity to present relevant information for consideration of his/her case

personally or by a health professional working with that student, if the student is not

capable of self-representation,

b) Notice of intent to remove the student pursuant to this policy stating the reasons for

the action, and

c) The opportunity to have an advisor of the student’s choice accompany

the student.

Hold on Student records. Students who are on a Summary Involuntarily Withdrawal

from the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine shall have a hold placed on their

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records with the College, which will prevent them from being readmitted or reenrolled

in the College unless the Summary Involuntary Withdrawal is lifted.

lifting a Summary involuntary Withdrawal. A student may request readmission

or reenrollment by providing the Dean of the College or designee with documentation

from an appropriate psychologist or psychiatrist approved in advance by the Dean of

the College or his/her designee and who has concluded that the student does not pose

a serious threat of harm to him/herself or others. In cases where the Dean of the College

or designee has imposed other conditions on readmission, it is the responsibility of the

student to provide documentation of compliance with such conditions.

In the event that the Summary Involuntary Leave of Absence is not lifted without restrictions

within thirty (30) days of its imposition, the student shall be referred to the MSEPC for

assessment and to determine whether he or she can return to the College and whether

any other conditions will be imposed upon the student. Such process will comply with the

processes applicable to the MSEPC including appeal.

Any medical student residing in FIU housing shall be subject to the FIU Involuntary

Withdrawal Policy provisions contained in that policy.

2. involuntary Withdrawal because of failure of the uSmle Step 1 examination

Students who do not pass the USMLE Step 1 examination may be placed on USMLE

leave-of-absence by the MSEPC. When the student is placed on an USMLE leave of

absence, the MSEPC will determine the length of leave based on the conditions, if any, for

return. Students will be reinstated upon successful completion of the examination and any

other restrictions that the MSEPC has imposed. A leave of absence for the USMLE Step

1 examination cannot exceed one (1) year unless approved by the MSEPC (see below).

A student who determines that he/she is not returning at the time scheduled for a

leave to end must consult with the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs or

designee as early as possible before the scheduled return date to allow sufficient time

to learn if an extension will be granted. The extension request may be presented to the

MSEPC at the discretion of the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs. If the

extension is not granted, the student will need to make other arrangements so that he/

she will return by the end of the leave’s term. Otherwise the student will be deemed to

have withdrawn from the College.

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All students who wish to extend a leave of absence for failing the USMLE examination

beyond the one (1) year limit must appeal to the MSEPC in writing as soon as

practicable but no later than twenty (20) days prior to expiration of the leave, outlining

the reasons for requesting the extension and presenting a time-line for return to the

College. Extensions of a leave of absence are not automatic.


Medical student performance is assessed based upon both grades awarded to medical

students as well as demonstrated professionalism. Both are described in this College of

Medicine Student Handbook. The Medical Student Evaluation and Promotion Committee

(MSEPC) is the committee tasked with evaluating both aspects of each medical student’s

performance. This evaluation occurs in two ways. First, any time a student fails to

pass one or more classes or violates standards of professionalism as set forth herein,

the MSEPC may evaluate such student’s performance regardless of when the event(s)

triggering review occurs. Second, at the end of each period, the MSEPC evaluates each

medical student’s grades and professionalism and makes a recommendation regarding

advancement to the next period or graduation, as applicable. The MSEPC is required

to consider each medical student’s overall performance in the evaluation; including prior

disciplinary actions and/ or remediations. The MSEPC is cognizant of the work of Honor

Council which is charged specifically with evaluating first violations of the Honor Code as

provided herein. The MSEPC and the Honor Council are charged with providing students

with due process, as provided herein, prior to taking action that is adverse to a student’s

academic standing.

An appeals process is established in this College of Medicine Student Handbook to

allow appeals from adverse recommendations when there are sufficient grounds as more

specifically provided herein.

Separate from the processes described above, medical students have the ability to bring

grievances against faculty or staff members to the Grievance Committee as provided in

this Student Handbook. Petition to the Grievance Committee is not, however, available to

students who are under review by the Honor Council or the MSEPC.

This summary is not intended to fully describe the processes set forth below. In the event

of a conflict between this summary and the specific provisions set forth herein, the specific

provisions shall control.


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i. Professionalism a. introduction

Medical students are required to abide by the Medical Student Honor Code, the

Medical Student Standards of Conduct, the FIU Student Code of Standards and

Conduct as described in the FIU Student Handbook, the applicable policies and

procedures of Florida International University including the Herbert Wertheim College

of Medicine, and the policies and procedures of institutions with which the College

has affiliation agreements. A violation by a medical student of the Medical Student

Honor Code or the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine Student Standards of

Conduct will be processed by the Honor Council and/ or the MSEPC as provided

in this Student Handbook. A violation by a medical student of the FIU Student

Code of Standards and Conduct will be processed by the Director for Student

Conduct and Conflict Resolution in accordance with the procedures outlined in the

FIU Student Handbook upon referral. The FIU Student Handbook can be found at

http://www.fiu.edu/student.htm. The Honor Council is responsible for adjudicating

most first time violations of the Honor Code. The MSEPC is responsible for evaluating

each student’s academic performance and professionalism; all facets of a student’s

performance will be considered when a student is evaluated by MSEPC.

b. medical Student Standards of Conduct

Medical students must adhere to the principles of conduct and ethics as established

by the FIU Student Standards of Conduct, in addition to the following principles from

the American Medical Association’s Principles of Medical Ethics, which are described as

“standards of conduct that define the essentials of honorable behavior for the physician.”

C. ama Principles of medical ethics

• A physician shall be dedicated to providing competent medical care, with

compassion and respect for human dignity and rights.

• A physician shall uphold the standards of professionalism, be honest in all

professional interactions, and strive to report physicians deficient in character or

competence, or engaging in fraud or deception, to appropriate entities.

• Aphysicianshallrespectthelawandalsorecognizearesponsibilitytoseekchanges

in those requirements which are contrary to the best interests of the patient.

• A physician shall respect the rights of patients, colleagues, and other health

professionals, and shall safeguard patient confidences and privacy within the

constraints of the law.

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• A physician shall continue to study, apply, and advance scientific knowledge,

maintain a commitment to medical education, make relevant information available

to patients, colleagues, and the public, obtain consultation, and use the talents of

other health professionals when indicated.

• Aphysicianshall,intheprovisionofappropriatepatientcare,exceptinemergencies,

be free to choose whom to serve, with whom to associate, and the environment in

which to provide medical care.

• Aphysicianshallrecognizearesponsibilitytoparticipateinactivitiescontributingto

the improvement of the community and the betterment of public health.

• Aphysicianshall,whilecaringforapatient,regardresponsibilitytothepatientas

paramount.

• Aphysicianshallsupportaccesstomedicalcareforallpeople.

Adopted June 1957; revised June 1980; revised June 2001.

the Herbert Wertheim College of medicine Policies governing Professionalism

Medical students shall abide by both the College and FIU policies and standards of

conduct, published in the online College of Medicine Handbook located at http://

medicine.fiu. edu and the FIU Student Handbook at http://www.fiu.edu/student.htm.

ii. the Honor Code, the Honor Council, and due Processa. Policy Statement

The health care professions require men and women of superb character who lead

lives that exemplify high standards of ethical conduct. A shared commitment to

maintaining those standards, embodied in an Honor Code, creates an atmosphere

in which medical students can develop professional skills and strengthen ethical

principles. The Honor Code requires that medical students live honestly, advance on

individual merit, and demonstrate respect for others in the academic, clinical and

research communities. The HWCOM shall have exclusive jurisdiction over matters of

academic misconduct and violations of the medical student Honor Code as described

in this section. A violation by a medical student of the FIU Student Code of Standards

and Conduct will be processed by the Director for Student Conduct and Conflict

Resolution in accordance with the procedures outlined in the FIU Student Handbook

and in accordance with applicable provisions of this Handbook. The FIU Student

Handbook can be found at http://www.fiu.edu/student.htm.


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The central purpose of the Honor Code is to sustain and protect an environment of

mutual respect and trust in which medical students have the freedom necessary to

develop their intellectual and personal potential. To support the community of trust,

students and faculty must accept individual responsibility and apply themselves

to developing a collegial atmosphere. The intent of the Honor Code is not merely to

prevent students from lying, cheating and stealing or to punish those who violate its

principles. Rather, participation in the Honor Code assures the Florida International

University community that the integrity of its members is unquestioned and accepted

by those in the academic, clinical and research communities. Participation in the Honor

Code confers upon students the responsibility to respect and protect the integrity of the

Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine.

The foundation of the Honor Code is the willingness of each individual to live up to the

standards established by the student body and faculty. Violation of the Honor Code

affronts us individually and collectively as the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine

regards such violations as serious offenses.

In addition, the Honor Code requires the absolute honesty of each individual. When

meticulously observed, the Honor Code allows medical students to live with the freedom

of knowing that:

• Theirpersonalpropertyandacademicworkarerespectedandfreefromtheft

• Classroom,clinicalandresearchenvironmentsfor learningandevaluationare

honorable

• Thelearningenvironmentisdesignedtobesafeandequitableregardlessofthe

student’s gender, race, national origin, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.

Students and faculty together establish, maintain and protect trust in these beliefs.

b. application of the Honor Code The Honor Code applies to all work submitted for academic credit. Violations of the

Honor Code reflect on the professionalism of a student. Any infraction of the Honor

Code confirmed by the Honor Council will be subsequently referred to the MSEPC

(i) for further action as provided in the provisions of this Student Handbook; and

(ii) for the overall evaluation of a student’s professionalism in accordance with the

provisions of this Student Handbook. Infractions of the Honor Code include but are

not limited to:

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1. Cheating

A medical student who does not do his or her own work on an academic exercise

or otherwise gains unfair advantage over his or her colleagues is guilty of cheating.

Examples of cheating are:

• Copyingfromanotherstudent’sexaminationorotherclasswork

• Allowinganystudenttocopyfromanotherstudent’sexaminationorotherclass

work

• Unauthorizedcollaborationduringanexaminationwithanyperson

• Usingunauthorizedmaterialsortechnologyduringatest

• Preparingnotestotakeintoaclosed-bookexamination,forexample,writingon

one’s hand or desk

• Presentingtheworkofanotherpersonasyourown

2. Plagiarism

The Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine recognizes plagiarism as “the act of

appropriating the literary composition of another, or parts or passages of his or her

writings, or the ideas or language of the same, and passing them off as the product

of one’s own mind.” (Webster’s New Collegiate Dictionary)

There are two distinct categories of plagiarism: conscious and unintentional. Both

are violations of the Honor Code. In unintentional plagiarism students do not

understand the process of crediting sources consulted in the writing of a paper

and may inadvertently find themselves subject to Honor Council investigation. To

avoid such unintentional plagiarism, students must familiarize themselves with the

appropriate documentation of resources. Students should also consult faculty

for assistance should there be any doubt about what constitutes plagiarism. Any

student helping another to plagiarize may be found to have violated the Honor

Code. In intentional plagiarism the student is fully cognizant of his/her actions.

3. fabrication

When a medical student consciously manufactures or manipulates information to

support an academic exercise, he or she has fabricated evidence.

Some examples are:

• Falsifyingcitations

• Manufacturingdatatosupportresearch

• Takinganexaminationorwritingapaperonbehalfofanotherstudent


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• Listingsourcesinthebibliographythatwerenotusedintheacademicexercise

• Falsifyinginformationinpatients’charts

4. false accusations

False accusations of another’s violation of the Honor Code made in bad faith may

constitute Honor Code violations and subject the accuser to penalty.

5. misrepresentation

Intentionally lying to a member of the faculty, staff, administration, or an outside

agency to gain academic advantage for oneself or another, or to misrepresent or

in other ways interfere with the investigation of a charge of academic misconduct.

6. misuse of Computer Services

The unauthorized use of any computer, computer resource or computer project

number, or the alteration or destruction of computerized information or files or

unauthorized appropriation of another’s program(s).

7. bribery

The offering of money or any item or service to a member of the faculty, staff,

administration, or third party in order to commit academic misconduct.

8. Conspiracy and CollusionThe planning or acting with one or more fellow students, or any other person to commit any form of academic misconduct together.

9. falsification of recordsThe tampering with, or altering in any way any academic record used or maintained by the College or the University or by the student for presentation to any University faculty or staff.

10. other actsMisrepresenting information to College officials (e.g., falsifying grades or forging College documents or records) violates the Honor Code.

11. failure to report observed ViolationsA medical student who observes one or more of the above violations must report such to the Honor Council. Failure to do so constitutes itself a violation of the Honor Code.

12. unprofessional ConductFirst instance of unprofessional behavior in the educational or professional environment that could not pose the threat of harm to self or others.

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C. Student Participation The Honor Code is designed to protect students’ academic freedom and professional integrity. For this to happen, all students must support the code by fulfilling specific obligations.

1. Students must:

• Notcondonecheatingonthepartofothers;

• RefusetoassistothersinactswhichmayviolatetheHonorCode;

• Takestepstoensurethatotherstudentscannotcheatfromone’sexaminationor paper;

• AsktheprofessorforclarificationifthestudentdoesnotunderstandhowtheHonor Code pertains to any given assignment; and

• AccepttheobligationtospeaktofellowstudentsaboutviolationsoftheHonorCode, and to report suspected violations to the Honor Council.

2. to provide assistance to students in this endeavor, faculty and administrators should:

• ExplainhowtheHonorCodeappliestocourseworkundertakenforeachclass;

• DiscusshowtheHonorCodeappliestocourseworkandbehaviorduringtheclinical years;

• Includeastatementaboutacademicintegrityineachcoursesyllabus;and

• Contact the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs (see below)

regarding suspected infractions of the Honor Code

d. Composition and Selection of the Honor Council Adoption of the Honor Code necessitates the creation of an Honor Council, a group

empowered to hear allegations of suspected violations of the Honor Code and recommend

an appropriate course of action to the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs.

The Honor Council is authorized to evaluate first time infractions of the Honor Code in

accordance with this policy. Administration of the Honor Code requires the individual and

collective cooperation of the entire medical school community — students, faculty, staff, and

administration. The Honor Council will facilitate the administration of the Honor Code and

act as liaison among the members of the medical school community regarding Honor Code


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issues. The Honor Council will hear first time violations and recommend an appropriate

course of action to the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and the MSEPC.

1. Composition of the Honor Council

The Honor Council will be comprised of both Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine faculty

and students to ensure the representation of all stakeholders. There shall be two (2) faculty

members, while the number of medical students shall increase with each new class until

12 students are appointed:

• Fortheinauguralmatriculatedclassandeachoftwo(2)classesthereafter,three(3)

students will be selected by the Dean of the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine

to become members of the Honor Council until the Honor Council has twelve (12)

student members. The Dean shall also select two (2) faculty members to become

members of the Honor Council. Honor Council members may not simultaneously be

members of the MSEPC.

• Afterthefirstthreematriculatedclasses,eachofthefour(4)medicalstudentclasses

will elect three (3) student representatives. The first-year medical student class will

elect three (3) representatives in September to serve during the first year of the Honor

Council. Honor Council elections for all classes will be held annually in September.

To be eligible to serve on the Honor Council, the medical student members must:

− Be enrolled in the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine

− Have upheld the principles stated in Honor Code

− Have a history of good academic and conduct standing, must currently be in

good academic and conduct standing, and must remain in good academic and

conduct standing.

• Beginningwith the fourthmatriculated class, the two (2) facultymembers shall be

elected by the Honor Council in consultation with the Deans in the Office of Student

Affairs. Nominations for these positions will be presented during the first Honor Council

meeting of the academic year. Nominations can be made by any member of the

student body or faculty. The election of the faculty members will take place at the

subsequent Honor Council meeting.

• The Executive AssociateDean for Student Affairs or designeewill be an ex-officio

member on the Honor Council, without vote, entitled to attend all proceedings.

2. term of Honor Council membership

The term of office for members representing the first, second, and third year classes of

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medical students will be from October 1st of that year to September 30th of the next.

The term of office for those medical students representing the fourth year medical school

class will be from October 1st until graduation. The term of student members of the Honor

Council shall be one (1) year, but may be renewed by re-election. The term of appointment

for each faculty member is three (3) years. Faculty members may be reappointed to the

Honor Council for two consecutive terms. A faculty member who serves two terms may

be reappointed after one (1) year interregnum. During the inaugural year of the College,

one faculty member will serve a two-year term and one faculty member will serve a three-

year term. The Executive Associate Dean for Student Affairs will determine which of the

two (2) elected faculty members for the inaugural Honor Council will serve only a two- year

term. Mid-term vacancies will be filled by appointment by the Dean of the College.

3. Honor Council Chairperson

At the first meeting of the Honor Council in each academic period, the members of the

Honor Council will elect a chairperson. Thereafter, the chairperson will be elected during

the final meeting of each academic period to serve during the following academic period.

It shall be the Chair’s responsibility to manage the operation of the Honor Council, preside

at the hearings, make determinations on procedural matters, and preserve the orderly and

effective functioning of the Hearing. It will be the Chair’s decision whether the attendance

of either complainant or affected student is mandatory. At the Chair’s discretion, either the

student being charged or the individual making the allegation may present his or her case

in writing. The Chair will also ensure that members of the Council remain on their fact-

finding task and that both parties and/or witnesses do not become unduly repetitious or

wander from relevancy in their testimony. The Chair will only vote to break a tie.

4. Challenges

Either the charged student or the Executive Associate Dean for Student Affairs has the

right to challenge the impartiality of any Honor Council member and to ask the Chair to

exclude the member from participating, stating in writing to the Chair the reasons for the

request. A maximum of three challenges may be exercised during the pendency of a

proceeding. It will be the Chair’s decision as to the validity of the challenge and whether

to recuse the allegedly impartial Honor Council member from the proceedings. In the

event that the Chair of the Honor Council’s impartiality is challenged, the Dean shall make

the decision as to the validity of the challenge and whether to recuse the Chair from the

proceedings. If the Chair is recused, the Dean shall appoint a Chair for the proceedings

from the membership of the Honor Council.


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5. notifications for medical Student evaluation and Promotion, Honors Council

and Student grievance Procedures

All notifications to be given under the Medical Student Evaluation and Promotion, Honors

Council, and Student Grievance processes will be made by hand-delivery or to the affected

individual’s last known address by any means evidencing delivery.

e. Complaint Procedures 1. filing Complaints

Any medical student, faculty member, or staff member who is aware of a potential

Honor Code violation must notify the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs by

providing him or her with a written description of the potential violation to the Executive

Associate Dean of Academic Affairs of the violation, including the names of the persons

involved. The form for filing a complaint is located on the College of Medicine website at

http://medicine.fiu.edu/docs/2010/honorcodeviolation.pdf. If a person who is not

employed by the University observes a student allegedly committing a violation of the

Honor Code, and wishes to report the violation, he or she must first inform a College

of Medicine faculty member, chair, or dean who will notify the Executive Associate

Dean of Academic Affairs in writing. The notice will include the names of the persons

involved and a brief description of the alleged facts. The Executive Associate Dean for

Academic Affairs shall, in light of the alleged facts, direct the appropriate faculty member

(“Complainant”) to meet with the charged student(s) in order (i) to inform him/her/them

of the allegation(s); (ii) to provide the charged student (s) with any evidence supporting

the allegations, and (iii) to allow the charged student(s) to respond before either entering

into an Informal Resolution (as described below), proceeding to a Formal Hearing (as

described below). No anonymous accusations will be accepted.

2. Charged Student’s academic Status

A charged student’s academic status will remain unchanged pending the outcome of

either an informal resolution, or the College’s final decision in the outcome of the Formal

Hearing. A charged student will not be allowed to register in the future until the Executive

Associate Dean for Academic Affairs or designee is assured that the student is satisfactorily

responding to the charges. If the charged student is satisfactorily responding to the

charges, he or she will be allowed to register and his or her current academic status will

remain unchanged, pending the College of Medicine’s final decision in the Honor Council

proceedings.

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3. Preliminary determination and informal resolution

The Honor Council has the authority to consider the first confirmed violation of the Honor

Code for a given student.

a. review Complaint for Sufficiency. When incidents of alleged Honor Code

violations are brought, the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs or

designee will review the written complaint and make an initial determination

regarding whether the allegations, if true, would constitute a violation of the

Honor Code. The Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs may speak

with the individual submitting the complaint to make this initial determination. If

the complaint does not allege a violation of the Honor Code or any standard of

professionalism, the complaint will be dismissed. If the allegations are sufficient to

constitute a potential violation of the Honor Code or standard of professionalism,

the allegations will be considered in accordance with the process outlined in this

Student Handbook.

b. first Violation. The Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs or designee will

determine whether there are prior complaints have been filed against the charged

student and resulted in a finding that the Honor Code was violated. If the Executive

Associate Dean for Academic Affairs or designee so concludes, the current allegation

will be referred directly to the MSEPC for resolution. If the Executive Associate Dean

for Academic Affairs or designee determines that the student has never been found

to have violated the Honor Code the complaint can be considered in accordance

with this Honor Council process that is, the complaint is to be considered to be the

first potential confirmed violation).

c. Second Violation or egregious unprofessional behavior. If the charged

student has a previous confirmed violation of the Honor Code or if the Executive

Associate Dean for Academic Affairs or designee has determined that the alleged

unprofessional behavior is deemed to be egregious and not appropriate for Honor

Council consideration, the matter will be referred to the MSEPC for consideration in

accordance with the MSEPC process as set forth in this Student Handbook.

d. fact finding meeting with Student and Complainant. In the event that the

matter will be handled through the Honor Council process, the Executive Associate

Dean for Academic Affairs or designee will meet informally with the Complainant and

the charged student prior to referral to the Honor Council for a formal hearing. The

purpose of this meeting is to understand facts and circumstances of the alleged

academic misconduct and to determine whether to enter into an informal resolution

process to attempt to develop an agreement of remedial measures without


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involvement of the Honor Council. A limit of twenty-one (21) calendar days exists

from the date of the initial fact finding meeting to completion of informal resolution.

e. informal resolution. Should the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs or

designee determine that the matter may be resolved informally, the Complainant and

the charged student must do so within twenty-one (21) days from the date of the initial

joint meeting with the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs or designee,

the Complainant and the charged student. This resolution must be acceptable to the

Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs or designee. The time frame for informal

resolution may be extended with the prior consent of the Executive Associate Dean for

Academic Affairs, the Complainant and the charged student.

If an informal resolution is reached, both the charged student and the Executive

Associate Dean for Student Affairs or designee will sign a Consent Agreement Form

which will be promptly filed in the student’s record in the OSA, as well as conveyed

to the MSEPC. This form will set forth the terms and conditions of the agreement,

including any sanctions agreed upon by the parties.

f. informal resolution not reached. If an informal agreement is not reached or

is deemed inappropriate by the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs or

designee, the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs or designee may either

take no further action or may, within five (5) business days after the expiration of time

for informal resolution, initiate a formal hearing by forwarding to the Honor Council

or MSEPC, as appropriate, the Complainant’s written complaint alleging an Honor

Code violation.

4. formal resolution

When formal procedures are initiated for adjudication by the Honor Council, the

Chairperson of the Honor Council will send the charged student with a copy of the filed

complaint form and accompanying documents, if any.

The charged student must deliver to the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs a

written response for forwarding to the complaint no later than five (5) business days after

receipt of the notice, indicating whether he or she chooses

• Not to dispute the facts of the charge and hence, request an Administrative

Disposition (described below)

• TodisputethefactsandhavehisorhercaseresolvedbyaFormalHearing(described

below). The Administration Disposition or a Formal Hearing will normally be held within

thirty (30) calendar days following receipt of the charged student’s written response.

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f. administrative disposition

If the charged student indicates in writing that he or she will not dispute the facts of the

charge and accepts responsibility for the specific charges of academic misconduct or

unprofessional behavior, an administrative disposition meeting will be held between the

student and an official designated by the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs.

During the Administrative Disposition meeting, the charged student and the designated

official will meet to discuss any mitigating circumstances as relevant to the possible sanctions

to be imposed. The Complainant may be present at the meeting. The recommendation will

be communicated in writing to the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs who

will approve or amend the resolution. The determination of the Executive Associate Dean

shall be delivered to the Dean for his or her consideration and approval. The Dean shall

approve or amend the recommendation. The charged student shall be advised of the

Dean’s decision within fifteen (15) business days of the date that the Executive Associate

Dean for Academic Affairs receives the designated official’s recommendation.

g. notice of formal Hearing

The charged student will be provided a minimum of five (5) business day’s prior written

notice that the Honor Council will be meeting with the charged student to consider a matter

within its jurisdiction. Notification will be made to the student in writing and will state:

• Adescriptionofthematterunderconsideration;and

• Thetime,dateandplaceofthehearing.

H. formal Hearing Procedure

1. information gathering

In the event that a matter is referred to the Honor Council for evaluation and recommendation,

the Honor Council has the authority to gather information concerning the incident in order

to assist with its deliberation and evaluation of the matter.

2. Confidentiality of Proceedings

All meetings will be conducted in private and absolute confidentiality. Members of the

Honor Council shall not discuss an allegation of a violation of the Honor Code except during

meetings formally called for that purpose. Violation of confidentiality is in itself an

Honor Code offense.

During the meeting, the charged student will be formally advised of the information that

forms the basis of the complaint and will have an opportunity to respond to the information

presented. The Honor Council will allow witnesses to the incident to present information


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about the incident. If the charged student requests, other person(s) may appear before the

Honor Council to speak on his or her behalf. The charged student may have an advisor

present; however, that advisor may only advise the student and may not address the Honor

Council member(s) directly or examine or cross-examine witnesses. Neither the student nor

the Complainant has the right to be represented by an attorney, and no attorney shall be

permitted to attend the meeting on the student’s or Complainant’s behalf. Any person invited

to the Honor Council proceedings, by virtue of his or her presence, is required to maintain

the confidentiality of the proceeding as described herein.

The Honor Council reserves the right to hear the case in the absence of the charged student

if he or she fails to appear or disrupts the proceedings. The complainant may still remain. The

Chairperson has the authority to exclude witnesses who provide redundant or duplicative

information. Character witnesses shall not be permitted to testify at the hearing. If witnesses

make presentations at the hearing, the student shall be entitled to pose relevant questions to

such witnesses. The Honor Council will consider the information gathered and any additional

information provided by the charged student, then making written findings of facts and

recommendations based upon its assessment of the information presented at the meeting.

3. Quorum and Voting

A quorum is constituted by more than fifty (50%) percent of voting members of the Honor

Council, two (2) of whom must be faculty members. A recommendation is adopted when

approved by a simple majority of the members present.

4. record of Hearing

Findings and recommendations of the Honor Council will serve as the official records of

hearings and will be sent to the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs within ten

(10) business days from the conclusion of the Honor Council’s deliberation.

5. Honor Council recommendations

The Honor Council will recommend an appropriate course of action to the Executive

Associate Dean for Academic Affairs. The recommendation of the Honor Council may be

any of the following:

a. Charge is not substantiated. Advise the charged student that the charge of violation

was not substantiated by the Honor Council and that a recommendation will be made

that no violation will appear on the student’s record.

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b. Charge is substantiated and the charged student will receive a reprimand. Advise

the charged student that the Honor Council finds the charge to be substantiated

and recommends that the student be reprimanded and be advised that any repeat

violation will be referred directly to the MSEPC.

c. Charge is substantiated and requires further consideration by the MSEPC. Advise

the student that the Honor Council finds the charge of such a nature that it requires a

recommendation for immediate referral to the MSEPC for consideration and action.

6. role of executive associate dean for academic affairs actions and Student’s

right to appeal

a. executive associate dean review and notice to the Student. The Executive

Associate Dean for Academic Affairs will review the Honor Council’s findings and

recommendations and issue a written report to the charged student. This report will

include the Honor Council report and the Executive Associate Dean’s recommendations.

This will occur no more than five (5) business days from the date that he or she

received the written record of the Honor Council’s findings and recommendation. The

Executive Associate Dean may uphold or amend the recommendation of the Honor

Council.

b. right to appeal. Any charged student who wishes to appeal the recommendation

of the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs may do so by filing a written

request for appeal with the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs within ten

(10) business days of receipt of the Executive Associate Dean’s determination. The

Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs may reconsider the matter or forward

the request for appeal to the Appeals Committee Chairperson in accordance with

terms of this Student Handbook.

c. action in absence of appeal. If a charged student does not appeal the Executive

Associate Dean for Academic Affair’s recommendation, it shall be forwarded to the

Dean for final determination. The Dean’s determination constitutes final agency action

unless the matter is referred to the Provost as provided herein.

7. grounds for appeal

The sole grounds for appeal are as follows:

a. Material failure to provide a student with his/her due process rights, as set forth in this

student handbook, this failure adversely affecting the outcome of the hearing. Appeals

based on this ground will be limited solely to a review of the record of the hearing.


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b. New information, not available at the time of the hearing and therefore not available to

be presented. In addition, the student must show that the new information could have

substantially affected the outcome of the hearing. The nature of the information must

be described in full in the appeal letter, including an explanation regarding the reason

the information could not have been presented at the hearing.

Individuals submitting a charge of Honor Code violations may not appeal Honor Council

decisions. This report will not include individually identifiable information about students.

Records of the case shall be kept in the secured storage of the Honor Council. Only active

Honor Council members have access to records, on a “need to know’ basis.. The charged

student will have access to his or her records. Records will be kept in accordance with the

State of Florida and federal laws, rules and regulations, including records retention policy.

The permanent record of a student who has violated the Honor Code will contain a note

of the offense, any penalty, and will include the following annotation: “action taken as the

result of determined violation of the Honor Code.” This permanent record will be securely

maintained in the student’s official record in the Office of Student Affairs.

iii. Patient ConfidentialityMedical students are expected to respect the rights of patients, including the rights to

privacy and confidentiality, and shall maintain the privacy and security of all patient records

and information in accordance with University and College policies, the policies of the

affiliated clinical hospitals and facilities, and state and federal law.

As a member of the patient care team, medical students will have access to health

information which is protected from disclosure under state and federal law (“protected

health information”) including patient medical and/or demographic information. The

Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine and each of the College’s affiliated hospitals and

clinics are subject to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996

(“HIPAA”) and have developed health information HIPAA privacy and security policies to

prevent unnecessary and inappropriate disclosures of health information (http://www.

hhs.gov). Medical students are required to abide by these HIPAA privacy and security

policies and will receive education and training to understand the requirements of policies

and law. In general, protected health information may not be discussed or disclosed to

anyone, verbally, in writing, or electronically, unless this disclosure is necessary to perform

the student’s duties and responsibilities. In particular, medical students may not review

medical records or access electronically stored patient information unless such review is

required in the performance of assigned duties.

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Medical students are responsible for maintaining the confidence of patients by sharing

confidential information only with others who need to know and by handling any

documentation of information in a manner that will maintain its confidentiality. Medical

students are required to submit a signed confidentiality statement during their orientation

process and on an annual basis thereafter.

Medical students should note that the HIPAA privacy and security policies apply to all

student-patient interactions, in formal curricular, extracurricular, or volunteer contexts.

Inappropriate disclosure of protected health information is a serious matter that reflects

adversely on a medical student’s professionalism and fitness to become a physician.

The following basic rules are considered to be fundamental requirements for medical

students at all clinical sites:

• Undernocircumstancesshouldanyprotectedhealthinformationbeaccessed(read

or copied)in the absence of a requirement for performance of duties.

• Healthinformationobtainedwhileprovidingclinicalcaredutiesmaynotbediscussed

with others unless a) such individuals are also involved in the treatment of that

patient or b) it is necessary to fulfill educational objectives required of the student.

• Onceconfidentialinformationisonpaperandinamedicalstudent’shands,he/she

is responsible for appropriate disposition: (a) distribute to authorized persons only,

(b) file securely, or (c) destroy.

iV. grades, and evaluation of academic/Professional Performancea. academic evaluation

1. Courses

The curriculum is comprised of independent courses arranged in longitudinal strands and

periods. Student performance is assessed in each course. Course numbers and credits are

assigned to each course. Credits reflect the quantity of content and the quantity of effort

expected of students in that course. Courses thus vary in number of credits, intensity of

scheduled time and duration.

Courses usually are organized to begin and end on common dates within periods and generally

adhere to a uniform weekly schedule. To the extent possible, final exams for concurrent

courses shall be scheduled in order not to compete with other learning activities.

2. Course Syllabus and teaching learning format The syllabus for each course contains the learning objectives, course schedule of activities,

topics to be presented, faculty involved, listing of course materials, evaluation system


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and grading policies and all other course policies including attendance expectations. A

variety of learning formats may be used, including lectures, discussion groups, individual

and group projects, simulation and standard patient laboratories and clinical supervised

patient care experiences.

3. Conduct of examinations Objective style exams will be conducted using secure questions that have been created or

selected by the faculty. Exam questions will not be available for study before or after exams.

All exams will be constructed by the FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine faculty. Some

exams may be administered in collaboration with the National Board of Medical Examiners

as customized with faculty selecting questions from the NBME question pool to create these

exams. NBME “shelf” exams may be administered.

Exam questions may be coded for content and used as a resource for students preparing

for licensing exams and also serve as a guide to faculty on student competencies in various

curriculum areas. Faculty may use a variety of performance measures in addition to formal,

web administered, objective exams. These performance measures will be described in the

syllabus for each course.

Students will take these exams in a classroom format set specifically for exams. The format

may include computer terminals linked only to servers hosting the exams at either the

College or the National Board of Medical Examiners. Exams will be timed. Questions on any

individual student’s exam may be scrambled in sequence and in order of answer options

where appropriate within the question format. During the exam students are not permitted to

have cell phones or any electronic devices other than those authorized by faculty. Students

are expected to remain in their seats for the duration of the exam.

b. exam grades

Prior to determination of grades students will have opportunities to raise concerns about

exams or ask specific questions via a survey at the conclusion of each exam. Exam results

will then be posted without student identification. Students will receive their own exam results

individually. General class performance on individual exams will be provided to students in the

results report. High score, low score, mean, median and the standard deviation will ordinarily

be in the reports.

C. Course grades

Performance in courses will be graded either numerically or pass/fail. The option is

selected by the course director and must be approved by the Curriculum committee. The

grading system for a given course will be clearly described in the course syllabus. For

numerical grades, the highest grade will be “100” and the lowest passing grade will be

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“75.” A grade that is numerically unsatisfactory will be designated by the letter “U”. Pass/

fail grades are an option in courses in the Professional Development, Clinical Medicine,

and Medicine and Society Strands.

All students will be given an opportunity to review their performance in academic courses

and clerkships. In the event that a student believes that a course grade or evaluation is

inaccurate or unfounded, students have the opportunity to appeal said grade or evaluation

to the Course Director using the Student Grievance process set forth in this Student

Handbook. This process is not available to students under review by the Honor Council or

the MSEPC for incidents related to professionalism.

d. incomplete Work in a Course

If a student is unable to complete required work in a course, the student will be given an

incomplete “I” status for the course. This requires formal approval by the course director

from both the Executive Associate Dean for Student Affairs and the Associate Dean for

Curriculum and Medical Education. If granted, the registrar will enter a grade of “I” on the

record. If not granted, the Course Director sets the affected student’s grade.

e. make up for incomplete Course Work

A plan to make up incomplete course work must be created by the course director and

approved by both the student and the Executive Associate Dean for Student Affairs and the

Associate Dean for Curriculum and Medical Education. The formal plan (“Plan for Completing

Course Requirements”) will describe the activities, assessment and time period to complete

the work. When completed, the course director will report the grade earned.

The MSEPC will consider incomplete work as part of its evaluation of a student’s academic

status. A student may be awarded “Provisional Promotion” to a subsequent period of study

with an “ I “ and an approved plan for remediation.

f. remediation of unsatisfactory Performance

Remediation of unsatisfactory performance is predicated on completion of a formal

remediation plan established by the course director and the student. The plan will be

formalized with a signed agreement entitled “Remediation Plan for Unsatisfactory

Performance,” a standard document stipulating expectations for work to be performed,

measures to be used to assess competency, and time period for the remediation. The

student, course director, and the Associate Dean for Curriculum and Medical Education

must all approve the coursework remediation plan and sign the agreement. Guiding and

managing remediation for an unsatisfactory student performance is a responsibility of the

course director with oversight by the ADCME. Remediation is to be designed to assure

competency in the course work and must be scheduled in such a fashion to avoid time


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conflicts with ongoing study in the curriculum. Students with unsatisfactory grades in

period 1 may be permitted by the MSEPC to continue into the first, (spring), segment

of period 2 without completed remediation; however, all period 1 remediation must be

successful before returning to classes in period 2 following the summer break. The same

policy applies to the first segment of period 2, namely that remediation for unsatisfactory

performance in these courses must be completed before resumption of classes following

the subsequent summer break. Upon satisfactory performance per the remediation

agreement, the course director will report the satisfactory achievement by submission of

a signed “change in grade” form for the course. The grade of “75” will be awarded and

appear as “U/75” on the student transcript for the course. The grade of 75 will be used

with the course credits in calculating the grade average. Failure to complete a plan for

remediation (i.e., work not completed or performed at an unsatisfactory level or on time)

will be reported to the MSEPC. Regardless of the outcome of remediation, the MSEPC will

review and evaluate each student’s academic performance for each period of study and

award Period grades of H, NH, P or F.

Given that time constraints unavoidably limit the number of courses that can be successfully

remediated concurrently, the MSEPC must at the earliest time available, evaluate the

academic performance of a student receiving unsatisfactory grades (F or u/75) in a total of

12 or more credits in any period of study. In such event, the MSEPC will meet to confirm

the unsatisfactory performance. If confirmed, the affected student has the right to enter

into an informal or formal resolution with the MSEPC as provided herein. If the MSEPC

confirms that a student has unsatisfactory grades in a total of 12 or more credits in a

period, it must make one of the following recommendations:

(i) require the student to repeat one or more academic periods; or

(ii) require the affected student to withdraw involuntarily from the HWCOM

In these cases the action of the MSEPC supersedes the responsibility of a course director

to manage remediation.

g. Standing during remediation

A student required to remediate a course or period is not in good standing until he or she

successfully remediates the course(s) or period, as applicable. If a student is required to

repeat one or more periods, that student is not considered to be in good standing until the

entire period(s) has been successfully remediated.

H. Provisional Promotion

The MSEPC may confer “Provisional Promotion” to a subsequent period allowing remediation

to be completed during continuing study.

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i. Period Performance evaluations

Students will be awarded performance grades for each of the four periods. These grades

are” H” Honors, “NH” Near Honors, “P” Pass or “U” Unsatisfactory. The grades will be

awarded by the Medical Student Evaluation and Promotion Committee (MSEPC) based

upon academic achievement in the period. These period grades will appear in the official

transcript separately from course grades. In general, Honors represents performance

in the top 10%, and Near Honors in the top 25% of the class. Students undergoing

remediation will also receive period grades.

J. transcript and grade average

The official transcript will be organized by periods of study listing all courses in a period

with the grades (numerical or P/F) earned for each course. The student grade transcript

will also list the grade awarded by the MSEPC for the period (H, NH, P, F). The transcript

will list credit hours for each course and the earned grade. The grade average for each

period will be calculated based on all courses with numerical grades. Further, the grade

average for each period will be on the transcript along with the cumulative grade average

following the second period of study. Courses with Pass/Fail grades will not be used in

determining period or cumulative grade averages.

k. formative assessments

Formative assessments are included in all courses and Periods, early enough to guide

student learning. They are:

1. Cognitive

Comprehensive Assessment and Preparation for USMLE Step 1 will be administered as a

required exam following completion of Period 1. This exam is a customized NBME exam

designed to cover the entire first period. Results will not impact student grades for either

period or courses. The purpose of this exam is solely formative allowing the student to reflect

on overall knowledge in relation to the USMLE Step 1 expectations. Comprehensive USMLE

Step 1 basic science self assessment BSSA exams will be administered three additional

times: 1) at the end of Period 2, 2) at the mid-point in Period 3, and 3) the end of period 3.

2. non-Cognitive

Development of behaviors, values and attitudes appropriate for the practice of medicine

are essential components of medical education. Behavior in a professional manner is

expected throughout the study for the Doctor of Medicine Degree. Professional, non-

cognitive behaviors will be evaluated in every course. In Periods 1 and 2, evaluations of

non-cognitive behaviors are formative and provided based on cumulative evaluations at

the mid-point and the end of each period. The Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine has


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a formal curriculum strand on Professional Development, with graded courses. These

reports will be aggregate reports from the evaluations in the courses completed in the first

and second half of courses, entirely formative and are intended to serve as the basis for

guidance and reflection.

Evaluation of professional, non cognitive behaviors is summative in period 3, an integral

part of each clerkship grade.

V. Policy on the united States medical licensing exams (uSmle)

a. general Policy for the fiu Herbert Wertheim College of medicine All students must pass the USMLE Step 1 before being promoted to the fourth period.

Students must also take the USMLE Step 2 CK (Clinical Knowledge) and USMLE Step

2 CS (Clinical Skills) exams prior to graduation, although passing these exams is not a

requirement for graduation.

b. uSmle Step 1

1. requirements

Students must be enrolled in the College in order to register for and take the USMLE Step

1. All students are required to pass the USMLE Step 1 to be approved for graduation by

the Medical Student Evaluation and Promotion Committee. Students are required to take

USMLE Step 1 before the start of period 4 and to pass as a graduation requirement.

2. registration deadlines and testing dates for uSmle Step 1

Third period students are required to complete applications for USMLE Step 1 in sufficient

time to request test dates on or before the end of the second week in June. Students with

circumstances that prevent them from taking USMLE Step 1 by the end of the second week

in June of Period 4 must, as soon as possible, petition in writing to the Executive Associate

Dean for Student Affairs and the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, who jointly

will review the request and make a determination. If the decision is made not to allow the

student to delay taking the exam, the student may request that the Dean review and evaluate

the decision not to extend the time to take the USMLE and make a recommendation to the

Dean of the College. The decision of the Dean is final agency action.

Vi. medical Student evaluation and Promotion Process for evaluation of academic Performance and Professionalism

The following describes the processes employed to evaluate medical student academic

performance and professionalism.

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a. the medical Student evaluation and Promotion Committee 1. Statement of Purpose:

The purpose of the MSEPC is:

a. To ensure that each student who graduates from the Herbert Wertheim College

of Medicine possesses the skills and knowledge necessary to assume the

responsibilities of a medical doctor;

b. To evaluate academic performance in the required curriculum, to assess

advancement to the next period (as this term is defined in this Handbook), and

to recommend appropriate intervention in the event of unacceptable academic

performance; and

c. To evaluate personal qualities which bear on a student’s professionalism and fitness

to become a physician and recommend appropriate intervention.

The MSEPC relies upon the cooperation, advice and judgment of faculty, students and

administration to perform these duties.

2. function

The E&P Committee has two (2) functions:

a. ongoing academic and Professional assessment for advancement and

graduation. The MSEPC evaluates the academic and professional progress that

a student has made during each academic Period and recommends whether the

student should advance to the next Period and/or graduate. This function mandates

that the MSEPC considers each student’s performance and considers all the

information available regarding both the student’s academic performance as well as

fitness to become a physician including, without limitation, behavioral conduct. In

addition, the MSEPC may evaluate a student’s performance at any time based upon

poor academic performance or unprofessional conduct. In the event that a student

has been required to remediate twelve or more credits in any period, the MSEPC

will convene to determine (i) if the student may be allowed to repeat all or a subset

of the courses for the academic period for which the courses were remediated, or

(ii) whether involuntary withdrawal from HWCOM is indicated as provided above.

b. assessment for a Specific determination of Professional fitness. The

second function is to evaluate specific unprofessional behavior including, without

limitation, alleged violations of University and College policies and the policies of

affiliated institutions and to recommend sanctions and interventions, if any. Medical

students are required to abide by the Medical Student Honor Code, the Medical

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2009-2010Student Handbook Inaugural ClaSS

123

Student Standards of Conduct, and as the FIU Student Code of Standards and

Conduct as described in the FIU Student Handbook, the applicable policies and

procedures of FIU and the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, and the policies

and procedures of institutions with which the College has affiliation agreements.

• authority decisions on Promotion and retention. The MSEPC has the authority

to recommend that a student repeat a course or academic period of study or to

suspend or expel a student based upon its assessment of the student’s academic

performance and/or professional fitness in accordance with the provision set forth

herein. The MSEPC has the authority to gather information relevant to any matter

before it.

• Student Hearing before mSePC. The MSEPC has authority to require a student

to appear before its committee. In the event that a student is referred to the MSEPC

for poor academic performance or unprofessional conduct, the student is entitled to

a hearing in accordance with the MSEPC hearing procedure set forth herein.

• appeals. In the event that the MSEPC makes an adverse recommendation based

upon a student’s academic performance or professional fitness, it will be forwarded

to the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs who will consider, confirm

or modify the recommendation. The affected student is entitled to appeal the

determination to the Appeals Committee as provided herein.

3. Composition and Selection of the evaluation and Promotion Committee

The MSEPC will be comprised of both College faculty and students to ensure representation

of all stakeholders. The MSEPC shall have eleven (11) voting members. There shall be

nine (9) faculty members, one of whom will be the chairperson appointed by the Dean of

the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, and two (2) medical student members. The

Chairperson must be faculty. The term of appointment for each faculty member is three

(3) years; each student member will serve for one (1) year. The faculty members will be

appointed by the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, subject to approval of

the Dean of the College. Faculty members may be reappointed to the MSEPC for two

(2) consecutive terms. A faculty member who serves two (2) terms may be reappointed

after one (1) year has expired. Faculty members on the MSEPC shall not participate in any

process which involves the evaluation of the findings and recommendation of the MSEPC

such as the Appeals Committee.

During the College’s inaugural year with respect to matriculated students and for the three (3)

years thereafter, the student members will be appointed by the Executive Associate Dean for

Affairs, subject to approval of the Dean of the College. Thereafter, the students will nominate

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124

and elect the student members to the MSEPC. The student members may include one (1)

student in the first two academic years and one (1) student in the last two academic years.

Students who serve on this Committee must have a history of good academic and conduct

standing, and must be in good academic and conduct standing. Any student member who

is not in good standing must be replaced.

4. advancement and graduation

a. mSePC Consideration and recommendation. At the end of each academic

period, the MSEPC will review the academic, professionalism, and conduct records of

all matriculated medical students to determine whether the student will be promoted

to the next academic period. Promotion is dependent upon satisfactorily completing

all scheduled courses and clerkships as defined by the course directors and upon

maintaining the degree of professionalism necessary to become a physician as

determined by a review of the medical student’s entire record. The MSEPC will

forward its recommendation for advancement and/ or graduation for each student to

the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs for review and approval. Students

whose professionalism, conduct or poor academic performance is under review by

the MSEPC, the Honor Council of another FIU hearing body, will not be forwarded to

the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs for consideration unless the review

is immaterial to the advancement and/ or graduation determination.

b. mSePC adverse recommendations. In the event that the MSEPC makes an

adverse recommendation regarding a student’s progress toward graduation, the

Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs will review, confirm or amend the

MSEPC recommendation, notify the affected student within five (5) business days

from receipt of a written report from the MSEPC. The student is entitled to appeal

the determination to the Appeals Committee as provided herein.

c. graduation. The MSEPC will review the academic accomplishments and

professionalism of each period four student to determine whether all requirements

for graduation from the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine have been met. The

MSEPC will forward to the Dean of the College the names of students who have met

all requirements for graduation. Names will not be forward of those students whose

professionalism or poor academic performance is under review by the MSEPC or

the Honor Council, provided such review is material to the evaluation of the student.

d. executive associate dean Consideration and recommendation. The Executive

Associate Dean for Academic Affairs will forward the advancement and/or graduation


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recommendations to the Dean of the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine for

review and approval.

e. appeal from recommendation of executive associate dean. A student

who is not recommended for advancement (or graduation for period 4 students)

by the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs has the right to appeal the

recommendation to the Appeals Committee in accordance with the procedures set

forth in this Student Handbook.

f. dean’s determination. The Dean’s decision, upon receipt of the Executive

Associate Dean for Academic Affairs recommendation, as applicable, shall be

final unless the student timely files an appeal with the Appeals Committee or the

Provost, as applicable, in accordance with the procedures set forth in this Student

Handbook. In such event, the Dean’s determination shall not become final until the

appellate process has concluded.

5. Student review of academic Performance and opportunity to appeal

All students will be given an opportunity to review their performance in academic courses

and clerkships. In the event that a student believes that a course grade or evaluation is

inaccurate or unfounded, students have the opportunity to appeal said grade or evaluation

to the Course Director using the Student Grievance process set forth in this Student

Handbook. This process is not available to students under review by the Honor Council or

the MSEPC for incidents related to professionalism.

6. notifications for evaluation and Promotion, Honors Council and Student

grievance Procedures

All notifications to be given under the Evaluation and Promotion, Honors Council, and

Student Grievance processes will be made by hand-delivery or to the affected individual’s

last known address by any means evidencing delivery.

b. Hearing Process for mSePC related to matters of Professional fitness

1. notice of Hearing

All hearing notices will be made in accordance with the notification provision set forth in

this Student Handbook. Students will be provided a minimum of five (5) business days’

prior written notice of the MSEPC meeting with the student to consider a matter within its

jurisdiction. The notice will state:

• Adescriptionofthematterunderconsideration;whichhererelatestoprofessional

fitness.

• Thetime,dateandplaceofthehearing.

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2. Hearing Procedure

a. information gathering

In the event that a matter is referred to the MSEPC for evaluation and recommendation,

the MSEPC has the authority to gather information concerning the matter to assist

with its deliberation and evaluation of the student’s academic performance and

overall professionalism.

b. meeting with Student and Confidentiality

All student meetings will be conducted in private. During the meeting with the

student, he or she will be advised of the information that forms the basis of the

inquiry or allegation; the student will then have an opportunity to respond to the

information presented. The student may have an advisor present; however, that

advisor may only advise the student and may not address the MSEPC member(s)

directly or examine or cross-examine witnesses. The student does not have the

right to be represented by an attorney, and no attorney shall be permitted to attend

the meeting on the student’s behalf or in any other capacity. The MSEPC will allow

witnesses to the incident to present pertinent information at the meeting with the

student. The Chairperson has the authority to exclude witnesses who provide

redundant or duplicative information. Character witnesses shall not be permitted

to testify at hearing. If witnesses make presentations at any hearing, the student

shall be entitled to pose relevant questions to such witnesses. The MSEPC will

consider the information it has gathered and any additional information provided by

the student and make written findings of fact and recommendations based upon

its assessment of the information presented. Such findings and recommendations

shall be provided to the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs within ten

(10) business days of the conclusion of the hearing.

3. Quorum and Voting

A quorum consists of at least six (6) voting members of the MSEPC. A recommendation is

adopted when approved by a simple majority of the members present. A recommendation

to expel a student from the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine must be approved by

two thirds (2/3) of the MSEPC.

C. notice of recommendation to Student

Findings and recommendations will be forwarded to the Executive Associate Dean

for Academic Affairs who will forward the findings and recommendations with any

amendments or modifications he or she makes to the affected student within five (5)

business days of receipt of the written record of the hearing.


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d. record of Hearing

Written decisions will serve as the official records of a hearing.

e. medical Student evaluation & Promotion Committee recommendations

The MSEPC will make one or more of the following recommendations regarding the

disposition of a matter of professional fitness considered by the Committee:

• Findthatthematterdoesnotwarrantaction;

• Issueawrittenreprimandorwarning;

• Allowthestudenttorepeatorotherwiseremediateacademicdeficiencies;

• Allowthestudenttocontinueonamodifiedacademicschedule;

• Referthestudentforcounselingorpsychologicalevaluation;

• Placethestudentonprobationwithsuchconditionsasdeemedappropriate;

• Suspendthestudentorplacethestudentonleaveofabsenceforaspecifiedtime

or until specific conditions are met;

• Suspendthestudentforaperiodoftime;

• Expelthestudent.

The MSEPC may recommend to the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs

removal of a student’s probation once the student has fulfilled the conditions of probation.

The Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs will approve or deny the request of the

MSEPC and notify the affected student of his or her decision.

f. executive associate dean of academic affairs’ actions

The Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs will review the Committee’s

recommendations and issue a written report of his or her recommendations within five (5)

business days of the date that he or she received the written record of the MSEPC action

or, if a student requests a meeting with the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs,

within five (5) business days of the date that a student requests a meeting pursuant to

this section, whichever is later. The Executive Associate Dean may adopt or amend the

recommendation of the Committee.

A student may schedule an appointment with the Executive Associate Dean for Academic

Affairs to discuss the proceeding prior to the Executive Associate Dean’s evaluation and

decision. The appointment must be requested in writing and received by the Executive

Associate Dean for Academic Affairs or designee no more than three (3) business days

after the student receives written notification of action by the MSEPC.

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The student has the right to appeal the decision of the Executive Associate Dean for

Academic Affairs by submitting a request for appeal as provided in the Appeals Process.

If the student does not appeal in timely fashion, the decision becomes final agency action.

Vii. the appeals Processa. the appeals Committee

1. Statement of Purpose

The Appeals Committee provides the forum for medical students to appeal decisions of the

Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs based upon findings and recommendations

made by the MSEPC, the College’s Honor Council, and the Medical Student Grievance

Committee.

2. Composition and Selection of the appeals Committee

The Appeals Committee will be comprised of both College of Medicine faculty and students

to ensure representation of all stakeholders. The Appeals Committee shall have seven (7)

voting members. There shall be five (5) faculty members, one of whom will be the chairperson

appointed by the Dean of the College, and two (2) medical student members. All members will

be appointed by the Dean of the College. The term of appointment for each faculty member is

three (3) years and for each student one (1) year. Students who serve on this Committee must

have a history of good academic and conduct standing, and must be in good academic and

conduct standing.

Any person who has participated in the MSEPC, the Honor Council, or the Medical Student

Grievance Committee with respect to the matter under appeal or who has otherwise been

involved in the evaluation of the incident that triggered an appeal is ineligible to serve on the

Appeals Committee convened to consider the matter under appeal.

b. grounds for appeal

The sole grounds for appeal are as follows:

1. Material failure to provide a student with his or her due process rights as set forth in

this student handbook which affected the outcome of the hearing. Appeals based

on this ground will be limited solely to a review of the record of the hearing.

2. New information, which was not available at the time of the hearing and therefore could

not be presented. In addition, the student must show that the new information could

have substantially affected the outcome of the hearing. The nature of the information

must be described in full detail in the appeal letter including an explanation regarding

the reason the information could not have been presented at the hearing.


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3. The severity of the sanction is clearly excessive in light of the nature of the offense and

the totality of the student’s academic performance including indicia of professionalism.

C. Procedure to request an appeal

When a student has a right to appeal a decision of the Honor Council, the MSEPC, or the

Student Grievance Committee, he/she will use the process established in this section and

must deliver a letter requesting appeal to the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs

within five (5) business days of receiving notification of the decision triggering a right to appeal.

d. appeals Committee responsibilities and actions

The following procedures shall govern the appeals process:

a. filing request for appeal. The appeal letter must state the grounds upon which

the appeal is based, the facts supporting the student’s assertion, and a request for

specific relief from the determination being appealed. The burden of proof rests with

the student to clearly demonstrate that an error occurred during the Honor Council,

MSEPC or Grievance Committee hearing process. The appeals process is not a re-

hearing of the matter under appeal.

b. appellate review. The Chairperson of the Appeals Committee shall be designated

as the appellate officer. He/she shall first review the appeal letter and documentation

from the original hearing to determine if there is a basis for appeal. If the appellate officer

determines there are no grounds for appeal, a written decision upholding the decision

will be sent to the student stating the appeal is denied and the reason for the denial.

If the appellate officer determines that there are grounds for appeal, the appellate officer

shall convene a meeting of the Appeals Committee within ten (10) business days from

the date that an appeal was properly requested. The Appeals Committee will provide

its written recommendations to the Dean of the College, the Executive Associate Dean

for Student Affairs, and the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs within ten

(10) days of the date of the meeting of the Appellate Committee.

The Dean will review the Appeals Committee’s recommendation and affirm, amend,

and/or remand to the Appeals Committee for specific consideration of the reason(s)

for the remand. Once the Dean has affirmed or amended the Appeals Committee’s

recommendation, the Dean’s decision shall be final agency action unless the Provost

issues a decision pursuant to Section G below. Except in the case of a summary

suspension, the student’s status will remain unchanged and all sanctions placed on

hold during the appeals process.

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e. notification of dean’s determination

The Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine Office of Student Affairs will provide official

notification to the student of the Dean’s decision within three (3) business days of receiving

the signed paperwork from the Dean. The Dean has the responsibility to ensure due

process is followed in all disciplinary actions undertaken on behalf of medical students.

This determination shall constitute final agency action unless the student appeals the

determination of the Appeals Committee to the Provost in accordance with this policy. In

the case of dismissal, the student will be removed from all courses or clerkships at that

time. The official effective date of the dismissal will be the date of the decision of the Dean

of the College.

f. grounds to appeal the determination of the appeals Committee to the Provost

A student may appeal the determination of the Appeals Committee to the Provost within

five (5) business days of the issuance of the decision by the Appeals Committee or official

in the event that there was a material failure to provide the student with his or her due

process rights as set forth in this Student Handbook which affected the outcome of the

hearing. Appeals to the Provost will be limited solely to a review of the record of the

hearing. If the Provost finds that there are no grounds for an appeal, the Provost’s decision

will constitute final agency action.

Viii. grieVanCeS and grieVanCe ProCedurea. Preamble

Medical education is most effective in an environment of informality, mutual respect,

cooperation, and open communication. Students in the Herbert Wertheim College of

Medicine must not only satisfy University standards but also the professional expectations

of faculty members which are inherent in the medical Student grievances often grow out of

misunderstandings or misperceptions about expectations of faculty members. Academic

and clinical faculty members and advisors have an obligation to communicate those

professional and academic standards applicable to medical students. Medical students

have a concomitant obligation to pursue and satisfy these standards. They are bound to

observe and respect the policies, rules and regulations of the University, and of the College

and its faculty. Most grievances should be settled through informal communications

between students and faculty members.

Occasionally, a conflict develops that cannot be resolved informally. When all means of

informal resolution have been exhausted, the parties have a forum in which to seek review

and resolution of an academic grievance against a faculty or staff member.


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Students have the right to bring grievances against a faculty or staff member concerning

academic matters. This Handbook outlines the procedures by which medical student

grievances are to be handled.

b. Purpose

The purpose of these policies and procedures is to provide a means for medical students

to seek investigation and possible resolution of academic grievances, as defined below.

C. grounds

The Grievances Policy and Procedures deal with any complaint or controversy alleging:

• Unprofessionalconductbyafacultyorstaffmemberthatadverselyaffectseithera

student’s ability to achieve academic expectations commensurate with his or her

ability to perform in classroom, lab, or clinical setting;

• Failuretorespectthestudent’srightofprivacy;

• Arbitraryandcapriciousgradingforcoursework,examination,clinicalclerkship,or

research project; or

• Arbitraryandcapriciousdecisiontodenypromotionordismissalfromacourseor

program.

Students may not use the grievance process to appeal or otherwise contest determinations

made by any other committee or council.

d. notifications for medical Student evaluation and Promotion, Honors Council

and Student grievance Procedures

All notifications to be given under the Medical Student Evaluation and Promotion, Honors

Council, and Student Grievance processes will be made by hand-delivery or to the affected

individual’s last known address by any means evidencing delivery.

e. filing a grievance against fiu faculty or Staff

Any student, staff member or faculty member may file a grievance alleging that a COM

faculty member or staff member has engaged in conduct constituting grounds for filing

a grievance against such faculty member under this policy. If a grievance is filed by an

individual other than an affected medical student(s), the Executive Associate Dean for

Academic Affairs will meet with medical student(s) affected by the alleged conduct to

determine whether such individual(s) wish to proceed with the grievance procedure. If so,

the grievance procedure shall be followed including the opportunity for informal resolution

of grievances. If not, the grievance shall not proceed and the matter will be referred to the

faculty member’s or staff member’s supervisor for consideration.


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Regardless of whether a grievance is filed, staff members and faculty members are subject

to FIU policies and Florida and federal law regarding their conduct, and FIU may take

disciplinary action in accordance with its policies and applicable law regardless of whether

a grievance is in process.

f. informal grievance Procedure

Medical students must first attempt to resolve the academic grievance as soon as possible

through an informal meeting with the faculty or staff member. The student must initiate such

informal resolution by contacting the faculty or staff member in writing with a copy to the

Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, no later than ten (10) business days after

classes begin in the period following that in which the complaint arose, or the grievance

will be deemed untimely. A mutually agreeable resolution shall be formalized through a

notation in the student’s file/record which is initialed by the student and the faculty or staff

member. If the matter cannot be resolved, including if the faculty or staff member cannot

be reached or does not respond, the student must meet with the Executive Associate

Dean for Academic Affairs to discuss the grievance before filing a petition for a formal

hearing. If an informal resolution cannot be reached within (20) business days after the

initial informal contact with the faculty or staff member, the student then has the right to

seek a formal resolution through the Grievance Procedure.

g. formal Hearing Process

The request for formal resolution, detailing the specifics of the complaint and attaching

all previous correspondence generated during the informal resolution process, must be

sent by the student to the offices of the Executive Associate Dean for Student Affairs

and the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs. The student must secure the

signature of the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs on the request for a formal

hearing, to certify that the informal process has been unsuccessfully completed. Within

five (5) business days from receiving the complaint, the Executive Associate Dean for

Academic Affairs or designee shall review the complaint for timeliness, jurisdiction, and to

determine whether there is sufficient evidence to justify a formal hearing. If the Executive

Associate Dean for Academic Affairs or designee determines the complaint to be within

the jurisdiction of the formal process, that it is timely, and that there is sufficient evidence,

he/she will order a hearing by Grievance Committee.

1. Selection of Committee members

When a complaint falls within the scope of this policy and there are disputed issues

of material fact to be determined, the Dean of the Herbert Wertheim College of

Medicine will refer the matter to the Grievance Committee. The Grievance Committee

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will be appointed on an ad hoc basis for each grievance under consideration. It

will be comprised of seven (7) members, all appointed by the Dean. Two (2) will

be medical students selected by the Dean of the College from a list of names

supplied by the Executive Associate Dean for Student Affairs. After the first three

years of the College’s existence, one (1) student will be appointed from students

in the first two years of study and one (1) student from the last two years of study.

Students who serve on this Committee must have a history of good academic and

conduct standing; must be in good academic and conduct standing. The other five

(5) members of the Grievance Committee shall be full-time faculty members who

have experience with the medical student curriculum. They will be selected by the

Dean from lists supplied by the Executive Associate Dean of Academic Affairs. The

faculty members of the Committee will include at least two (2) faculty members

from academic or patient care units outside of the facility where the event giving

rise to the grievance allegedly occurred and at least two (2) faculty members from

the academic or patient care unit of the facility where the event giving rise to the

grievance allegedly occurred. The Chairperson of the Grievance Committee will be

jointly selected by the Dean of the College and the Executive Associate Dean for

Academic Affairs. In the event that a Committee member is unable to attend the

Committee meeting, the Dean will appoint a substitute who must attend.

2. Hearing Procedure

a. filing Complaint

The formal academic grievance procedure is initiated by filing a written complaint

with the Dean. The complaint must be filed within ten (10) business days of the

date the informal resolution process ends, or within ten (10) business days after

classes begin in the period following that in which the complaint arose–whichever is

later. After receipt, the Dean, in consultation with the Chairperson of the Grievance

Committee, will review the complaint to determine whether it falls within the scope

of this policy and whether a formal hearing is warranted. When there are disputed

issues of material fact which must be determined and the complaint falls within the

jurisdiction of the Grievance Committee, a formal hearing is warranted.

b. Hearing Schedule and notice of Hearing

If a complaint is within the scope of this process, a hearing shall be scheduled as soon

as possible but no later than forty-five (45) business days after receipt of the written

grievance. Students and affected faculty or staff members will be provided written

notice at least five (5) business days prior to the Grievance Committee meeting. The

Dean of the College will notify the student, faculty or staff member involved in the

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grievance of the hearing by hand-delivery or to the student’s, faculty, or staff member’s

last known address by any means evidencing delivery. The notice will state:

• adescriptionofthematterunderconsideration;and

• thetime,dateandplaceofthehearing

c. notification that Complaint is not Within Purview of grievance Committee

If the complaint does not fall within the scope of this policy, then the student shall be

so notified in writing.

d. information gathering

The Grievance Committee has the authority to gather information concerning the

incident to assist with its deliberation and evaluation of a matter. Faculty, staff and

administrators must comply with all reasonable requests for relevant information that

will assist the student in presenting his or her case and the Committee in reaching a

recommendation.

e. meeting

All Grievance Committee meetings will be conducted in private. During the meeting

the student and the faculty and/or staff member against whom the grievance is made

will be advised of the substance of the inquiry/allegation. The student will have the

opportunity to present his or her complaint and may call witnesses to participate with

the prior consent of the Chairperson of the Committee. The affected faculty and/or

staff member(s) will have an opportunity to make a presentation and to call witnesses

to participate with the prior consent of the Chairperson of the Committee. The student

and affected faculty member must provide a list of witnesses at least three (3) business

days prior to the date of the meeting. The student and affected faculty and/or staff

member(s) will have an opportunity to respond to the information presented. The

parties do not have the right to be represented by an attorney, and no attorney shall be

permitted to attend the meeting on a party’s behalf in any capacity. At the Chairperson’s

discretion, either party can present his or her case in writing. All relevant documents

should be in the hands of the Committee Chair no later than five (5) business days

before the Committee meets to consider the case. Any documents received after this

date may be excluded at the discretion of the Chair of the Committee. The Committee

will consider the information presented at the meeting and make written findings

of fact and recommendations based upon its assessment of such information. Its

deliberations will take place outside the presence of the parties.


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f. Quorum and Voting

A quorum is more than fifty percent (50%) of the voting members of the Committee.

A recommendation is adopted when approved by a simple majority of the members

present.

g. record of Hearing

Written decisions will serve as the official records of the meeting and will be sent to

the Dean of the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine.

h. determination

A written report including findings of facts, conclusions and recommendations shall

be prepared and forwarded to the Dean of the College within fifteen (15) business

days from the conclusion of the Committee’s deliberation. The Dean shall issue

a written decision within fifteen (15) business days of receipt of the Committee’s

report. The affected student and the faculty and / or staff members will be sent

copies of the Dean’s determination by hand delivery or sent to their last recorded

home address in a manner evidencing receipt. The Committee’s recommendations

regarding the student’s evaluation will be binding on the faculty member. In addition,

other recommendations regarding the faculty member will be considered by the

Dean and further actions will be taken in accordance with the College faculty bylaws

and applicable College and University policies and procedures.

H. appeals of the grievance Committee report

All appeals shall be taken to the Appeals Committee and shall follow the process set forth

in the Student Handbook.

i. Support Services

In addition to the Grievance Process, students are encouraged to make full use of the

services available at the Student Counseling and Wellness Center and the Office of

Student Affairs. These resources cover the full range of academic, personal, financial,

health or marital difficulties and will be handled confidentially.

J. Support Procedure to address misconduct against medical Students in

Clinical or Professional Settings by individuals who are not fiu faculty members

or Staff members

Any medical student, staff member or faculty member may notify the Executive Associate

Dean for Student Affairs that a medical student has been subject to misconduct in a clinical

or other educational setting by a person who is not an FIU staff member or faculty member.

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The Executive Associate Dean for Student Affairs shall promptly notify the Executive

Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and the Affiliate Dean for the institution at which the

alleged conduct occurred and request an immediate investigation in accordance with the

institutions policies and applicable law. The Affiliate Dean will report the alleged misconduct

to the institutions Chief Executive Officer or his or her designee for follow up and action.


As representatives of the medical profession, all medical students at the Herbert Wertheim

College of Medicine are expected to convey a professional demeanor not only in their

behavior but also in their dress and appearance. A professional image conveys credibility,

trust, respect, and confidence in one’s colleagues and patients. Appropriate dress is also

essential to enhance patient safety in the clinical setting.

When students are assigned to clinical activities in any of the College’s participating

institutions, they should consider themselves as representatives of FIU as well as the

College. Hence, attire and behavior should promote a positive impression for the individual

student, the specific course, and the institution. In addition to the guidelines outlined below,

certain departments and some affiliate clinical institutions may require alternate dress

guidelines which must be followed. These requirements typically will be included in written

course materials, but if any doubt exists, it is the responsibility of the student to inquire.

The following policy outlines some of the major expectations concerning appropriate

dress and personal appearance.

1. general Standards (classroom, laboratory, and clinical settings):

a. The Dress Code will be in effect during HWCOM working hours (0800-1700)

and in all clinical and laboratory settings.

• Studentsarepermittedtowearcasualattire(shorts,exerciseclothes,etc.)

only in FIU HWCOM classrooms, the Medical Student Library and in medical

student lounges, or study spaces, unless otherwise specified.

b. FIU HWCOM photo ID badge is required to be carried by all students, faculty,

staff, and physicians at all times.

c. All clothing must be clean, neat, professionally styled, and in good repair.

• Men:slacksandshirt,preferablywithcollar.Tieisoptional.

• Women:dressesorskirtsofmediumlength (hemnoshorterthantwo(2)

inches above the knee) or slacks, professional style blouse or shirt

• Clothingshouldfitwellwhenyouareindifferentpositions,e.g.,noexposed

undergarments, no midriffs, and no plunging necklines

d. Good personal hygiene and grooming are required to be maintained at all times.


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e. Excessive use of fragrances should be avoided as some people may be sensitive

to scented chemicals which may cause allergic or other adverse reactions.

f. Hair should be neat and clean. Hairstyle and/or color should not interfere with

assigned duties or present a physical hazard to the patient, to self, or to another

person.

g. Fingernails should be clean and of short to medium length.

h. Students may not wear acrylic nails while providing patient care.

2. Standards in the classroom setting:

a. For men, a shirt with a collar is recommended.

b. For women, shirts and blouses must extend to the waistband of the pants.

c. Students are permitted to wear casual clothing as per section J.1.a. including

casual pants/shorts, jeans, and T-shirts, provided they are clean, in good repair,

and do not contain any offensive language or pictures.

3. Standards in the laboratory setting:

a. Students should follow the general standards outlined in section J.1.

b. Men and women are required to wear closed-toe shoes.

4. Standards in the clinical care setting:

a. Professional attire and physician-identifying clothing:

• Men shouldwear a shirt, tie, long pants, socks, and closed, hard-soled

shoes (i.e., no tennis shoes or sneakers).

• Women should wear long pants with a blouse/shirt of a professional

appearance.

• AwhitecoatwiththeHerbertWertheimCollegeofMedicineembroidered

logo and a name badge are required.

• Whilewearingawhitecoatintheclinicalsetting,medicalstudentsarealso

expected to identify themselves as students at all times and must assume

responsibility to clarify their role to patients.

b. Students should not chew gum.

c. Specific clerkship guidelines may supercede the above general standards.

5. Standards for home visits:

a. The same as the general dress guidelines, except students should not wear

white coats or badges when making home visits.

b. In general, the dress should be casual professional attire that fits in with

community standards and does not draw attention to the student.

c. The dress guidelines for the home visits will be reviewed in more detail as a part

of the coursework in preparation for the first home visits.

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6. additional guidelines:

a. The use of jewelry (e.g., necklaces, rings, earrings, bracelets, etc.) and other

fashion accessories should be appropriate and not interfere with assigned duties.

Jewelry represents a potential for infection and loose or dangling jewelry can be

grabbed causing a potential physical hazard to the student or the patient.

b. Tattoos and body art with wording or images that may be perceived as offensive

should be covered during the time of professional contact with patients and families.

Some examples of such offensive art or images include racial slurs, swear words,

symbols of death, or inappropriate revealing of body parts in a way that a reasonable

person could perceive as inappropriate.

7. Clothing/Shoes/uniforms:

a. Clothing, including white coats, should be clean, professionally styled, and in

good repair.

b. Shoes must be comfortable, clean, in good repair and appropriate to the job and

duties. In addition, specific footwear requirements, such as steel-toed shoes,

may be defined in areas with special safety concerns. Sandals are acceptable

in FIU HWCOM classrooms, medical student lounges or study spaces, and the

medical student library only. Beach-type shoes (such as thongs or flip-flops) and

bedroom slippers are not appropriate.

8. Hospital attire:

a. In general, medical students should wear their own clothes when providing

patient care in outpatient or inpatient settings.

b. Scrubs are to be worn in compliance with the policies of the institution in which

the medical student is assigned for patient care rotations. Typically, they should

not be worn in public places outside of the clinical care facility.

c. Scrubs may be worn in specific patient care areas as appropriate to the clinical

activity and are especially practical for night call.

d. If a scrub suit must be worn outside of the designated clinical areas, it should be

covered with a white lab coat.

e. Scrubs should not be taken home without prior written authorization from the

providing institution.

f. Hair covers, masks, shoe covers, and gowns should be removed before leaving

the designated clinical areas and should not be worn while in the outpatient

clinics or when making rounds on the inpatient services.

9. examples of inappropriate attire in the clinical setting include, but are not

limited to, the following:


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a. Shorts

b. Blue denim jean pants

c. Pants in any color that are not in good condition (e.g., have holes, ragged hems,

or patches)

d. Exercise or workout clothing, including sweatpants, spandex, or leggings

e. Sandals and bedroom slippers

f. Caps or hats, unless worn for medical or religious reasons or for nature of

specific duties (such as outdoor work)

g. Shirts or other apparel with images, wording, or logos that may be perceived as

offensive to patients, families, or others

h. Tank tops, halter tops, translucent tops, tops with plunging necklines, or tops

that leave the midriff or back exposed

i. Clothing that exposes undergarments

j. Sunglasses when indoors

k. Any attire that could be perceived as sexually provocative to a reasonable person.


Sexual Battery Policy

The Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine will adhere to the Florida International University

Sexual Battery Policy contained in the FIU Student Handbook which policy is set forth

below. The Counseling and Wellness Center (CWC) is available for counseling assistance

as are the FIU resources described below.

Sexual battery and attempted sexual battery will not be tolerated in any form in the

University community. Acts of date rape, gang rape, acquaintance rape, marital rape, and

stranger rape are all considered to be sexual battery and are punishable by the Florida

Criminal Statutes and disciplined under the FIU Student Code of Conduct. Both men and

women can be victims and perpetrators of sexual battery.

Sexual battery shall be defined as oral, anal, or vaginal penetration by, or union with,

the sexual organ of another or the anal or vaginal penetration of another with other

objects. Sexual battery occurs without a person’s intelligent, knowing, and voluntary

consent. Examples of non-consensual incidences may include but not limited to the

following: a victim is physically helpless (unconscious, asleep, or physically unable

to communicate his/her unwillingness), victim has been administered a narcotic

or intoxicant without his/her knowledge, or is coerced into submission through a

perceived or actual threat of force.

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for help, advocacy, counseling, treatment, and referralWhether or not a victim wishes to press charges, he/she may consider the option of being

treated at a rape treatment center. The Jackson Memorial Hospital (JMH) Rape Treatment

Center and the Broward Rape Treatment Center offer counseling, medical assistance,

sexually transmitted disease and pregnancy testing, and evidence collection examinations

free of charge. They can retain evidence for several days while a victim decides if he/she

wishes to pursue criminal charges. The JMH hotline is 305-585-7273 and the Broward

County hotline is 954-761-RAPE (7273).

If a person is a victim of sexual battery or attempted sexual battery, and wishes to pursue

criminal charges, he/she should either call Public Safety at 305-348-2626 or emergency

911 if the incident occurred off-campus. To press charges, it is important to save evidence

by not drinking fluids, showering, douching, bathing, or changing clothing.

The FIU Victim Advocacy Center is accessible 24 hours a day for crisis intervention,

counseling, advocacy, information, and referral. An advocate can be contacted by calling

the hotline, 305-348-3000.

The Student Counseling and Wellness Center (CWC) as well as the FIU Counseling and

Psychological Services Center (CPSC) offer counseling throughout the recovery process.

Appointments can be made at the CWC by calling 305-348-1460; referrals will be made

to the FIU (CPSC) or Victim Advocacy Center, as appropriate.

If the perpetrator is a student, the victim should contact the FIU judicial administrator at

305-348-3939 to pursue disciplinary action or obtain information about FIU Student Code

of Conduct violations. It is unlawful to disclose identifying information of a person who is

alleged to be the victim of sexual battery.

Sexual Harassment

The Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine will adhere to The Florida International University

Board of Trustees (BOT) regulation FIU-104 Sexual Harassment and FIU BOT regulation

on FIU-103 Non-Discrimination Policy and Discrimination Complaint Procedures. These

documents contain the procedures to be followed in the event that a student (or employee)

feels that he/she may have experienced sexual harassment.

fiu-104 Sexual Harassment(1) general Statement

(a) Sexual harassment undermines the integrity of the academic and work

environment and prevents its victims and their peers from achieving their


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full potential. All members of the University community are entitled to work

and study in an atmosphere free from sexual overtures or innuendos that are

unsolicited and unwelcome. It is the particular responsibility of those members

of the University community who hold positions of authority over others to avoid

actions that are, or can be considered, sexually abusive or unprofessional.

(b) It shall be a violation of this regulation on sexual harassment, as hereinafter

defined, for any member of the University community to sexually harass, as

sexual harassment any other member of the University community. Sexual

harassment is a type of misconduct which shall result in disciplinary or other

action as provided by the policies and regulations of the University.

(c) The University discourages amorous or sexual relations between employees

and students. Such relationships, even when consensual, may be exploitive

and imperil the integrity of the educational process or work environment. They

may also lead to charges of sexual harassment. When an individual evaluates

(including academic evaluations) or supervises another individual with whom

he or she has an amorous or sexual relationship, a conflict is created. The

University requires the resolution of any conflict of interest created by these

relationships.

(d) Whenever a conflict of interest situation arises or is reasonably foreseen, the

employee in a position of authority must resolve any potential conflict of interest

by taking necessary steps, including, but not limited to, removing himself or

herself from evaluative or academic decisions concerning the other individual.

If he or she is unable to personally resolve the conflict of interest, he or she

is required to inform the immediate supervisor promptly and seek advice and

counsel in dealing with the conflict. The employee, along with the supervisor,

is responsible for taking steps to ensure unbiased supervision or evaluation of

the employee or student. Failure to resolve potential or actual conflict of interest

situations as described in this regulation may result in disciplinary action, in

accordance with University policies.

(2) definitions

(a) For the purpose of this regulation, sexual harassment is defined as any

unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors or other verbal or

physical conduct of a sexual nature which:

1. Makes submission to or rejection of such conduct either an explicit or implicit

basis for employment and/or academic decisions affecting the individual; or

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2. Unreasonably interferes with the individual’s employment or academic

performance by creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment.

(b) Conduct which falls into the definition of sexual harassment includes, but is not

limited to:

1. Unwelcome physical contact of a sexual nature such as patting, pinching or

unnecessary touching.

2. Overt or implied threats against an individual to induce him or her to provide

sexual favors or to engage in an unwelcome sexual relationship.

3. Verbal harassment or abuse of a sexual nature, including intimating by

way of suggestion a desire for sexual relations, or making jokes or remarks

of a sexual nature in the work environment or which are not germane to

academic course content.

4. Use of sexually suggestive terms or gestures to describe a person’s body,

clothing, or sexual activities.

5. Displaying or posting through any medium, including, but not limited to,

electronic communication, offensive sexually suggestive pictures or materials

in the workplace.

(3) Procedures for reporting Violations and Conducting investigations and

Complaints.

The procedures described in the University regulation concerning non-discrimination

shall be followed.

(4) Prohibition of retaliation

No University employee or officer shall retaliate against a complainant. Any attempt to

penalize a student, employee or agent of the University for initiating a complaint through

any form of retaliation shall be treated as a separate allegation of discrimination.

(5) frivolous or malicious Complaints

In the event that a claim of sexual harassment is found to be frivolous or malicious,

appropriate University sanctions shall be taken against the complainant, including

disciplinary action where appropriate. Disciplinary action against students shall be

taken in accordance with the University’s Code of Conduct for students.

(6) general university responsibility

(a) It is expected that vice presidents, deans, chairs, department heads, directors and


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other supervisors shall continue to monitor and take corrective action whenever

instances of sexual harassment are either observed or reported to them. While

the decision regarding resolution remains within the unit, all allegations of sexual

harassment are to be immediately reported to the Office of Equal Opportunity

Programs, which will provide advice and monitor the administrator’s actions and/

or take appropriate action.

(b) There may be instances in which a potential complainant is unable or unwilling

to pursue a complaint of sexual harassment, but where the University

administration is aware of the behavior. In such instances, the Office of Equal

Opportunity Programs may choose to pursue an investigation of the alleged

offense. The decision of whether or not to pursue an administrative complaint

will be based on the egregiousness of the alleged offense, the basis for the

aggrieved party’s decision not to pursue a complaint, and the apparent

evidence supporting the allegations. The decision to pursue an administrative

complaint shall be made by the Director of the Office of Equal Opportunity

Programs in consultation with the Vice President in charge of the aggrieved

party’s unit and the Vice President in charge of the alleged offender’s unit, in the

event that the two parties are in different units. An administrative complaint will

follow the same procedures as formal complaints except that no complainant

will be named.

(7) education and notification.

(a) Copies of this regulation shall be widely disseminated in order that the University

community clearly understand which acts constitute sexual harassment and

recognize that the University regards sexual harassment as a serious offense.

(b) This regulation shall be included in the University catalog and the student

handbook. Periodic workshops and other educational programs are offered to

University personnel regarding the topic of sexual harassment.


Non-Discrimination Policy and Discrimination Complaint Procedures

By Federal Law and Florida Statute, the University is prohibited from giving differential

consideration based on gender, sexual orientation, age, race, creed, or national origin. The

Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine (HWCOM) adheres to this policy as stated below.

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fiu-103 non-discrimination Policy and discrimination Complaint Procedures

(1) general Statement.

(a) Florida International University affirms its commitment to ensure that each

member of the University community shall be permitted to work or study in an

environment free from any form of illegal discrimination, including race, color,

religion, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status,

and veteran status. The University recognizes its obligation to work towards

a community in which diversity is valued and opportunity is equalized. This

regulation establishes procedures for an applicant or a member of the University

community to file a complaint of alleged discrimination or harassment.

(b) It shall be a violation of this regulation for any member of the University community,

to discriminate against or harass, as hereinafter defined, any member of the

University community or applicant. Discrimination and harassment are forms

of conduct which shall result in disciplinary or other action as provided by the

regulations/policies of the University.

(2) definitions.

(a) For the purpose of this regulation, discrimination or harassment is defined as

treating any member of the University community differently than others are

treated based upon race, color, religion, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation,

national origin, marital status and/or veteran status.

(b) Conduct which falls into the definition of discrimination includes, but is not

limited to:

1. Disparity of treatment in recruiting, hiring, training, promotion, transfer,

reassignment, termination, salary and other economic benefits, and all other

terms and conditions of employment on the basis of membership in one of

the listed groups.

2. Disparity of treatment in educational programs and related support services

on the basis of membership in one of the listed groups.

3. Limitation in access to housing, or participation in athletic, social, cultural or

other activities of the University because of race, color, religion, age, sexual

orientation, disability, national origin, marital status and/or veteran status.

4. Discrimination of the foregoing types on the basis of sex, unless based on

bona fide requirements or distinctions, in housing, restrooms, athletics and

other such areas.

5. Retaliation for filing complaints or protesting practices which are prohibited

under this regulation.


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(c) Conduct which falls into the definition of harassment includes, but is not limited

to, harassment based on race, color, religion, age, disability, gender, sexual

orientation, national origin, marital status or veteran status. (For harassment on

the basis of sex, see FIU Sexual Harassment Regulation. Within the context of

this regulation, harassment is defined as conduct which unreasonably interferes

with an employee’s, student’s or applicant’s status or performance by creating

an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working or educational environment. It

includes offensive or demeaning language or treatment of an individual, where

such language or treatment is based typically on prejudicial stereotypes of

a group to which an individual may belong. It includes, but is not limited to,

objectionable epithets, threatened or actual physical harm or abuse, or other

intimidating or insulting conduct directed against the individual.

(d) Scope of prohibitions: Activities covered under this regulation include, but are

not limited to, all educational, athletic, cultural and social activities occurring on a

campus of or sponsored by the University, housing supplied by the University, and

employment practices between the University and its employees.

(e) When referred to in this regulation, “days” means calendar days unless otherwise

noted.

(3) Procedures for reporting Violations and Conducting investigations

and Complaints.

(a) Administration and Consultation. The Office of Equal Opportunity Programs shall

administer the policies and procedures outlined in this regulation. The Office of Equal

Opportunity Programs shall answer inquiries regarding the procedures contained in

this regulation and may provide informal advice regarding issues of discrimination.

In cases where the potential complainant chooses not to file a formal complaint,

action will be taken to inform the alleged offender of the concerns, suggesting that

the individual monitor and modify (if necessary) his/her behavior.

(b) Complaints.

1. A complaint must be made in writing to the Office of Equal Opportunity

Programs. The complaint shall contain the name of the complainant and state

the nature of the act(s) complained of, including such details as the name of the

alleged offender and the date(s) or approximate date(s) on which the offending

act(s) occurred, the name(s) of any witnesses, and the desired resolution(s).

2. A complaint must be filed within one hundred (100) days of the alleged act(s)

of discrimination, or in the case of a student complaint against a faculty

member, within fourteeen (14) days from the first day of classes for the

following semester.

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3. The Office of Equal Opportunity Programs shall investigate the formal

complaint. This investigation may include, but shall not be limited to,

interviewing the person complained about regarding the allegations, interview

of other persons who may have information relevant to the allegations,

preparation of witness statements for all persons interviewed, and review of

any relevant documents. Upon completion of the investigation, a report shall

be prepared which includes a summary of the complaint, a description of

the investigation, the findings, and recommendations.

4. There may be instances in which a potential complainant is unable or unwilling

to pursue a complaint of discrimination, but where the University administration

is aware of the behavior. In such instances, the Office of Equal Opportunity

Programs may choose to pursue an investigation of the alleged offense. The

decision of whether or not to pursue an administrative complaint will be based

on the egregiousness of the alleged offense, the basis for the aggrieved party’s

decision not to pursue a complaint, and the apparent evidence supporting the

allegations. The decision to pursue an administrative complaint shall be made

by the director of the Office of Equal Opportunity Programs in consultation

with the Vice President in charge of the aggrieved party’s unit and the Vice

President in charge of the alleged offender’s unit, in the event that the two

parties are in different units. An administrative complaint will follow the same

procedures as formal complaints except that no complainant will be named.

5. In the event that a claim of discrimination is found to be frivolous or malicious,

appropriate University sanctions shall be taken against the complainant, including

disciplinary action where appropriate. Disciplinary action against students shall

be taken in accordance with the University’s Code of Conduct for students.

(c) Conciliation. The Office of Equal Opportunity Programs may attempt conciliation

during the course of an investigation of a complaint. If conciliation is not achieved,

then the Office of Equal Opportunity Programs shall continue to investigate the

complaint, and shall issue a written finding concerning probable cause within a

maximum of one hundred (100) days. If conciliation of the complaint was achieved

between the parties in cooperation with the Office of Equal Opportunity Programs,

and the alleged offender fails to abide by the agreement or retaliates against the

complainant, the complainant or supervisor should notify the Office of Equal

Opportunity Programs. The Vice President for Human Resources or a designee

may then require the complaint to proceed as if conciliation had not been reached.

(d) Findings. The report of the Office of Equal Opportunity Programs shall be made

known to the Vice President for Human Resources or designee, the complainant,


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the alleged offender, the immediate supervisor of the alleged offender, and the

appropriate vice president.

(e) Review.

1. Either party may seek review of the finding of the Office of Equal Opportunity

Programs to the Vice President for Human Resources or a designee by filing

a request for a review (“appeal”) within twenty (20) days of receipt of the

Office of Equal Opportunity Programs finding. It shall specify the basis of the

appeal. The appeal shall be based on one or more of the following: relevant

evidence was not reviewed and/or new evidence is available, or the factual

evidence was insufficient to support the findings.

2. The appeal shall be in writing, and shall set forth the issues to be considered

in the appeal. Copies of the appeal shall be provided to the opposing party

and to the Director, Equal Opportunity Programs.

3. The opposing party and the Director, Equal Opportunity Programs, may file

a response to the appeal to the Vice President for Human Resources or

designee within twenty (20) days of receipt of the appeal.

4. The Vice President for Human Resources or designee shall issue a written

finding no more than twenty (20) days after receipt of the appeal, or of a

response to the appeal, whichever is later.

(f) Resolution. Upon final acceptance by the Vice President for Human Resources

or designee of a written finding on the complaint, the immediate supervisor of

the alleged offender may provide a reasonable resolution to the complaint (e.g.,

that a student be allowed to change sections, that the employee report to a

different supervisor) and may also recommend or take disciplinary action against

the alleged offender. The proposed resolution shall be approved by the Office of

Equal Opportunity Programs. Disciplinary action shall be taken in accordance

with the regulations and policies affecting the class of employee and the terms

of any applicable collective bargaining agreement.

(g) Prohibition of Retaliation. No University employee shall retaliate against a

complainant or any person involved in the process. Any attempt to penalize a

complainant or anyone involved in the process through any form of retaliation

shall be treated as a separate allegation of discrimination.

Specific Authority Board of Governors’ Resolution dated January 7, 2003. History–New

7-6-97, Amended 11-3-02, 11-15-04, Formerly 6C8-1.009, Amended 9-12-08.

the fiu HWCom values diversity, as a diverse faculty and student body enhances the learning environment for all students.

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medical School applicants

HWCOM has an appointed an Admissions Committee that is the sole body responsible

for the selection of accepted medical students from the pool of medical school applicants

received by the College. The Admissions Committee is composed of faculty members who

collectively have diverse backgrounds. The selection process for interview or admission

does not employ a system of quotas on the basis of gender, sexual orientation, age,

race, creed, or national origin. The Admissions Office selects applicants who have met

the minimum admissions criteria established by the Admissions Committee for interview.

Following the interview, applicants are selected for the next class by the Admissions

Committee based on the allocated number of seats available.

Each applicant is individually assessed by members of the Admissions Committee after

which each member submits an electronic vote using a point score system of 0 to 50 points.

The areas assessed include: (1) academic potential, (2) commitment to service, (3) personal

qualities/character, (4) motivation for medicine, (5) interest in Florida and in FIU, (6) research,

(7) clinical/experience, (8) enriching qualities, and (9) diversity. Once the class size has been

reached, the Admissions Committee further admits additional applicants to the “Accept-Wait

List” which is used to fill vacancies created by accepted applicants who, prior to matriculation,

elect to take positions at other medical schools. Applicants from the “Accept-Wait List” are

utilized by the Admissions Office to fill any vacancy. When two candidates on the “Accept-

Wait List” have equal qualifications, the applicant who will contribute most to the diversity of

the class will be used to meet the Mission Statement of the College.

medical School Students

Federal law and Florida statute prohibit the university from giving differential consideration

to students based on gender, sexual orientation, age, race, creed, or national origin.

Under no circumstances will medical students enrolled in HWCOM receive differential

consideration based on gender, sexual orientation, age, race, creed, or national origin.

K. HEALTH POLICIES

1. Alcohol Policy

expectations for responsible use of alcoholFlorida International University is committed to the responsible use of alcohol by all

members of the FIU community. Irresponsible, high-risk use of alcohol threatens the

lives, health, safety, and performance of our students and employees. When one drinks

irresponsibly, he or she is more likely to become injured, to make unwise choices regarding


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sex and relationships, to miss class, to perform poorly on tests, to perform poorly in clinical

environments and possibly to endanger patients; to develop chemical dependency, and

to withdraw from the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. Excessive drinking also

impacts others; these second-hand consequences of drinking include interrupted sleep,

inability to concentrate and study, fights, property damage, assault, rape, and death.

Thus, high-risk drinking undermines the academic mission of the College and jeopardizes

a medical student’s professional aspirations. This policy is created to respond to the very

serious public health problem by acting proactively in a comprehensive effort to ensure the

safety and well being of the FIU community.

Alcohol will be permitted at Florida International University only in those settings which

comply with state and federal laws, local ordinances, and this policy. All events must

respect the rights of those who choose not to drink alcohol. As the policy may change

since the time of submission for the Student Handbook, it is highly recommended that

one read the FIU Student Handbook at www.fiu.edu/student to read the latest version

of the FIU Alcohol Policy.

Any medical student, faculty or staff member who observes behavior indicating that a

medical student may have an addiction to alcohol (or other drugs) should make a referral

to the Office of Student Affairs. The Executive Associate Dean for Student Affairs or a

designee will meet with the student and recommend consultation at the Counseling and

Wellness Center for evaluation and possible treatment. Medical students who feel that they

have an alcohol (or other drug) problem may also self-refer to the Counseling and Wellness

Center to receive confidential counseling. Any student who is inebriated at school or at a

site of a clinical rotation will immediately be removed from the classroom or clinical site and

will be referred to the MSEPC for evaluation.

In addition, the College expects its students to adhere to The Florida International University

Board of Trustees Regulation 2505 on alcohol. Refer to the FIU Student Handbook for the

complete policy (http://fiu.edu/student.htm)

2. Tobacco and Smoke-Free Campus

According to the National Toxicology Program, the U.S Environmental Protection

Agency, the International Agency for Research on Cancer, and the National Institute for

Occupational Safety and Health, second-hand smoke contains at least 250 chemicals

known to be deleterious to the health of non-smokers who inhale it. Florida International

University and the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine recognize the safety hazard and

negative public health impact caused by the use of smoking materials and exposure to

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second-hand smoke. FIU and the College seek to prevent and control these public health

hazards by defining limitations on the use of tobacco products and similar type materials,

consumed in like manner, on its premises. The College adheres to the FIU policy regarding

smoking which is set forth below.

1. definitions:

(a) “Smoking” means possession of a lighted cigarette, cigar, pipe, water-pipe or hookah or any product consumed in a similar manner; and the use of an unlit cigarette, cigar, pipe, water-pipe or hookah, or the use of an electronic cigarette, cigar, pipe or any other device intended to simulate smoked tobacco.

(b) “Tobacco products” means cigarettes, cigars, pipes, smokeless tobacco, snuff, chewing tobacco, smokeless pouches, and any other form of loose-leaf, smokeless tobacco.

(c) “University campus” or “campus” shall include all those lands occupied or controlled by Florida International University; which includes, but is not limited to the inside of all buildings, parking garages, parking lots, athletic fields, and all stadium seating.

1. Smoking and/or use of any tobacco product is prohibited in all areas of the University campus, interior and exterior, including parking lots and vehicles.

2. Sale of all tobacco products is prohibited on the University campus.

3. Effective date for this regulation was January 1, 2011.

Specific Authority: Board of Governors Regulation 1.001(7)(g).

3. Alcohol and Drug-free Workplace and Campus PolicySource: The FIU Student Handbook. The College adheres to the FIU Alcohol and Drug-

free Workplace and Campus Policy set forth below.

Promoting productive practices and safe healthy behaviors

federal lawsdrug-free schools and campuses regulations: 34 CFR Part 86

Public contracts/drug free workplace: 41 US Code, Chapter 10

Public welfare/drug-free workplace requirement: 45 CFR part 76, subpart F:

As a condition of receiving funds or any other financial assistance under any federal

program, institutions of higher education shall certify that they have developed and

implemented an Alcohol & Drug-Free Workplace & Campus Policy.


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State lawsSale of Alcohol

florida Statute 561. 01: Sale of alcoholic beverages includes any admission charge, sale

of cups, tickets, donations, etc.

florida Statute 562.12: The sale of alcoholic beverages without a proper license

is unlawful.

Legal Drinking Age

florida Statute 562.11: Selling, giving, or serving alcoholic beverages to persons under

21 years of age or misrepresenting the age of another to induce service of alcoholic

beverages to persons under 21 years of age is unlawful.

florida Statute 562.111: Possession of alcoholic beverages by persons under the age

of 21 is unlawful.

Disorderly Inoxication

florida Statute 856.011: Endangering the safety of another person, causing property

damage, drinking any alcoholic beverages in a public place, or causing a public disturbance

while intoxicated is unlawful.

Driving under the influence

florida Statute 316.193: A person is “under the influence” of alcoholic beverage, any

chemical substance set forth in S. 877.111 or any substance controlled under F.S.

Chapter 893, when affected to the extent that his/her normal faculties are impaired or that

blood and breath alcohol levels exceed legal thresholds. Operating a motor vehicle while

“under the influence” is unlawful.

florida Statute 316.1936: Possessing an open container of alcoholic beverage while

operating a vehicle, or while present as a passenger in a vehicle is unlawful.

university PoliciesThe FIU Student Handbook includes policies on alcohol and drugs. The section on “Standards

of Student Conduct” outlines disciplinary actions that may be taken for violation of these

policies. Each student is encouraged to review this section of the Handbook and become

familiar with possible consequences of violating these policies. In accordance with University

policies, appropriate disciplinary action shall be taken regarding any employee who violates

the Florida International University Alcohol & Drug-Free Workplace & Campus Policy.

Contracts and Grants

The Drug-Free Workplace Regulations requires that Contracts & Grants employees

notify their supervisor or other appropriate University representative of any criminal drug

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statute conviction for a violation, occurring in the workplace, within five (5) days after such

conviction. The University shall notify federal contracting agencies within ten (10) days

of having received notice that an employee (identified by position and title) engaged in

the performance of a contract or grant has had a criminal drug statute conviction for a

violation occurring in the workplace.

Within 30 calendar days of receiving notice of the employee’s conviction the University shall

take the appropriate personnel action, including the application of appropriate sanctions

up to and including termination. The employee may also be required to participate in a

substance abuse assistance or rehabilitation program.

Policy Statement

Florida International University is committed to providing a work and educational

environment that is safe and fosters the health of its students, faculty, staff, guests,

and patients. This commitment is jeopardized when anyone, including students and

employees, unlawfully or inappropriately possess, use, distribute, or sell illegal drugs or

alcohol on University premises or at any University sponsored activity.

The goal of this policy is to balance the University’s respect for an individual’s rights with

the need to maintain a safe, productive, and drug-free environment in which to study and

work. The intent of this policy is to send a clear message that illegal drugs and alcohol

abuse are incompatible with studying or working at Florida International University and to

provide education and counseling services to those who may need it.

1. It is a violation of this policy for any person to possess, sell, trade, distribute, or offer for

sale illegal drugs or to otherwise engage in the use of illegal drugs on campus or within

a 200 foot perimeter of University owned, leased, operated or controlled property.

2. It is a violation of this policy for anyone to attend classes, clinical sites, and perform

related duties and assignments “under the influence” of illegal drugs or alcohol.

3. It is a violation of this policy for anyone to use prescription drugs illegally. The legal

use of prescription drugs with known potential to impair personal safety should be

reported to supervisors or appropriate University representatives.

Violations of this Policy by any student or employee of Florida International University shall

constitute grounds for evaluation and/or treatment for drug/alcohol abuse, for disciplinary

action and/or criminal sanction. Disciplinary actions may range from letters of reprimand

up to and including expulsion from the University. Such actions shall be in accordance with

the applicable “Standards of Student Conduct” and University policies and procedures.


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In compliance with federal “Drug-Free Schools and Campuses” regulations, Florida

International University shall provide annual notification to students regarding this Policy and

available alcohol and substance abuse awareness, prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation

programs. Further, the FIU Substance Abuse Task Force shall conduct biennial reviews of

such programs in order to assure their continued conformance with the stated goal and

intent of this Policy and the “Drug-Free Schools and Campuses” regulations.

Health Risks Associated with Alcohol and Substance Abuse:

Productivity, academic performance, work quality, motivation, judgment, and safety may all

be adversely affected by an individual’s abuse of alcohol and drugs.

There are many physical and mental health risks associated with the abuse of alcohol and

other drugs. Further, the effects of substance abuse involve not only the user but also

extend to their family, friends, and colleagues. A brief summary of the most commonly

abused substances and their physiological and psychological effects is provided below.

Alcohol

Statistics show that alcohol abuse is involved in the majority of violent behavior incidents on college campuses including sexual assault, unwanted sexual behavior, vandalism, fights and driving under the influence. Alcohol abuse may result in the following:

• Impairmentinjudgment• Decreasedreflexesandcoordination• Aggressivebehavior• Impairmentinlearningandmemory• Malnutrition• Psychosis,dementia• Cirrhosisoftheliver,hepatitis,liverfailure(encephalopathy)• Respiratory depression, coma, and death, especially when combined with

other depressants

Persistent abuse of alcohol can lead to physical dependence, such that sudden cessation of intake usually results in life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, including severe anxiety, hallucinations, tremors, and seizures. Prolonged alcohol abuse is frequently associated with poor nutrition, brain and liver damage.

Women who drink during pregnancy may give birth to infants with irreversible physical abnormalities and mental retardation, called Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. Research shows that children of alcoholic parents are more likely to abuse alcohol themselves.

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Narcotics (Heroin, Morphine, Codeine, Demerol, Percodan, OxyContin)

Narcotics initially produce a feeling of euphoria followed by drowsiness, nausea, and vomiting.

Users may experience constricted pupils, watery eyes, and itching. An overdose may produce slow and shallow breathing, clammy skin, convulsions, coma, and death. Tolerance to narcotics develops rapidly and dependence is likely. Intravenous injection may cause HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, and cardiac disease. Addiction in pregnant women can lead to premature, stillborn, or addicted infants who may exhibit withdrawal symptoms.

Inhalants

Many psychoactive substances are inhaled as gases of volatile liquids. Some commercial products such as paint thinners, glues, and cleaning fluids are mixtures of volatile substances, which when inhaled may cause

• nausea• sneezing,coughing,nosebleed• fatigue• lackofcoordination• lossofappetite• airwayobstruction,anddeath

Certain solvents and aerosol sprays may decrease heart and respiratory rates and impair judgment. Amyl and butyl nitrate cause rapid pulse, headaches, and urinary and fecal incontinence. Long-term use may result in hepatitis, brain damage, weight loss, fatigue, electrolyte imbalance, and muscle weakness. Repeated use of inhalants may permanently damage the nervous system.

Marijuana

The effects associated with marijuana use include:

• increaseinheartrateandbloodpressure• blood-shoteyes• drymouth• hunger• impairmentofshort-termmemoryandconcentration• alteredsenseoftime• decreasedcoordination• decreasedmotivation• psychologicaldependence• Chroniclungdiseaseandlungcancerafterlong-termuse.Chronicusecanresultin

lack of motivation, severe apathy, and diminished academic drive.


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“Designer Club” Drugs (GHB, Rohypnol & Ecstasy)

1. GHB is an illegal and dangerous central nervous depressant, especially when mixed with alcohol, another central nervous system depressant. It is available as a tasteless liquid or powder that unfortunately is illegally slipped into the alcoholic drink of an unsuspecting individual to cause deep relaxation, sleep, and amnesia which is the setting often leading to rape. Some of the other severe adverse effects of GHB include:

− Liver failure− Seizures which can result in coma and even death− Respiratory failure and/or arrest which can also result in coma and death

2. Rohypnol, also known as “Roofies” is a strong central nervous system depressant, commonly known as the “Date Rape” drug. When ingested in conjunction with alcohol or other depressants, the effects begin within 3 minutes, peak within 2 hours, and persist for over 8 hours, depending upon the dosage. Adverse effects associated with the use of Rohypnol include:

− decreased blood pressure− memory impairment− drowsiness− visual disturbances− dizziness− confusion− gastrointestinal disturbances− urinary retention

3. Ecstasy, also known as MDMA, “Adam” or “XTC,” is a synthetic, psychoactive (mind-altering) drug with amphetamine-like and hallucinogenic properties. Some of the adverse effects of MDMA include:

− psychological effects, including confusion, depression, severe anxiety, and paranoia

− muscle tension, involuntary teeth clenching− nausea− blurred vision, rapid eye movement − dizziness− hyperthermia and chills− increased heart rate and blood pressure− insomnia− long-term brain damage

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Cocaine

Cocaine is a powerful and dangerous central nervous system stimulant that has the following effects:

− psychological and/or physical dependency

− development of tolerance relatively rapidly, whereby the user needs to take larger doses to achieve the same initial effect of the drug

− stimulation of the central nervous system resulting in elevated blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and body temperature

− ulceration and rupture of the mucous membranes in the nose

− potential for transmission of HIV, hepatitis B, and other blood-borne infectious diseases if injected using contaminated needles

− the birth of a cocaine-addicted baby when used by a pregnant mother. The newborn may experience withdrawal symptoms shortly after birth, mental retardation, and/or have permanent mental and physical disabilities

In addition, it should be noted that crack is a concentrated form of cocaine. Its potent effects are evident within seconds. Physical effects that may have a sudden onset include heart palpitations, elevated pulse and blood pressure, loss of appetite, insomnia, dilated pupils, hallucinations, paranoia, and seizures. The preparation of free-base, which involves the use of highly volatile solvents, can result in a fire or explosion.

Amphetamines and other stimulants

Symptoms of stimulant use and abuse include increased heart and respiratory rates, elevated blood pressure, dilated pupils, excessive perspiration, headache, dizziness, sleepiness, anxiety, and loss of appetite. When consumed in large quantities, palpitations, irregular heartbeat, tremors, loss of coordination, coma, and death may result. Regular use can lead to an amphetamine psychosis characterized by hallucinations, delusions, and paranoia.

Hallucinogens

1. Lysergic acid (LSD), mescaline, and psilocybin cause illusions and hallucinations. Physical effects include rapid heart rate, increased blood pressure, dilated pupils, tremors, and insomnia. Psychological effects include panic, confusion, suspicion, anxiety, and flashbacks.

2. Phencyclidine (PCP) produces dramatic behavioral alterations, memory and speech difficulties, depression, paranoid and violent behavior, and hallucinations. Large doses of PCP may produce convulsions, heart and lung failure, coma, and death. Inability to perceive pain may allow an individual to cause themselves severe harm.


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Anabolic Steroids

Closely related to the male sex hormone testosterone, anabolic steroids may be prescribed for a limited number of medical conditions such as severe burns and certain types of anemia and cancer. A plethora of adverse effects may result from steroid use, including:

− Liver disease, liver cancer− Growth problems, premature bone fusion− Acne− Cancer− Testicular atrophy− Tendon rupture (due to unnatural hypertrophied muscles)− HIV/AIDS and other blood-borne infections (sharing needles)− Psychological problems

− Rage and uncontrolled anger

− Sexual dysfunction, sterility and impotence

Depressants (Barbiturates, Tranquilizers, Hypnotics)

The effects of depressants are similar to those of alcohol. The use of depressants can cause both physical and psychological dependence. Tolerance may result after regular use. Withdrawal symptoms, ranging from anxiety to seizures and death, result from abrupt termination of abuse.

Women who abuse depressants during pregnancy may give birth to babies who are physically dependent. These babies often have birth defects, behavioral problems, and may develop withdrawal symptoms shortly after birth. Large doses can cause slurred speech, impaired coordination, and altered perception. Very large doses can cause respiratory depression, coma, and death. Even small doses of depressants, when combined with alcohol, are likely to produce the symptoms described above.

Medical students who have a known or suspected abuse problem will be referred to seek professional care at the Student Counseling and Wellness Center which will include mandatory education and possible referral to agencies that specialize in substance abuse and alcohol treatment and rehabilitation. If the student fails to attend an evaluation consultation at the Student Counseling and Wellness Center, or if such abuse interferes with the medical student’s academic or performance in the clinical setting, a mandatory referral may be made to the Physician’s Recovery Network for evaluation and treatment, prior to return to the classroom or clinical setting. The matter will also be referred to the MSEPC. Students who refuse professional treatment and/or violate the provisions of the drug-abuse policy repeatedly will be subject to dismissal from the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine.

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Prevention, treatment, and assistance resources for medical Students:

a. The Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine Office of Student Affairs

− Office of Student Affairs; ACH2 660W2

Phone: 305-348-0644

− Counseling and Wellness Center; Green Library, room 340B

Phone: 305-348-1460

b. The FIU Counseling and Psychological Services Center

− Modesto A. Maidique Campus

Location: University Health Services Complex, room 270

Phone: 305-348-2434

− BBC Location: Wolfe University Center, room 320

Phone: 305-919-5305

C. University Health Services General Medical Clinic



Phone: 305-348-4020

− BBC Location: Student Health Clinic (west of Library)

Phone: 305-919-5307

d. Office of Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution.


Location: Graham Center 311

Phone: 305-348-3939 for both campuses

e. University Public Safety Department


Location: Public Safety Building

Phone: 305-348-2626

− BBC Location: Public Safety Building

Phone: 305-919-5559

f. Disability Resource Center


Location: Graham Center, room 190

Phone: 305-348-3532

− BBC Location: Wolfe University Center, room 139

Phone: 305-919-5345


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g. Victim Advocacy Center



Phone: 305-348-3000 (24 hour hotline)

Phone: 305-348-1215 (non-urgent)

− BBC Location: Wolfe University Center, room 257E

Phone: 305-919-5324

4. Communicable Diseases

general infections:Students, including all visiting students, with communicable diseases or conditions will

not be permitted to engage in patient contact until such conditions have resolved as

documented by a physician. This restriction is necessary to protect the health and safety

of FIU patients and staff. Persons with the following medical conditions will not be allowed

patient contact without prior medical clearance: 1) active chickenpox, measles, German

measles, herpes zoster (shingles), acute hepatitis, and tuberculosis; 2) oral herpes with

draining lesions; 3) group A streptococcal disease (i.e., strep throat) until 24 hours after

treatment has been received; 4) draining or infected skin lesions (e.g., Methicillin Resistant Staphyloccocus aureus (MRSA); or 5) HIV/AIDS (also refer to the separate FIU AIDS Policy in the FIU Student Handbook).

A student who has a communicable disease or is unsure whether he/she should participate in patient care should seek medical care by a private physician. All students with a communicable disease must receive written medical clearance by a physician prior to return to clinical care activities. A case-by-case evaluation of each infected student shall be done by his/her physician to determine his/her ability to perform the duties required of the clinical rotation. Based on the recommendations of his/her physician, it is the responsibility of each infected medical student to notify the Office of Student Affairs if unable to perform clinical work; appropriate documentation is required. See also Absence Policy. All such notifications will be kept strictly confidential.

If an ill student is unsure whether he/she should participate in patient care, the student should contact his/her private physician or a physician on staff at the FIU University Health Services. All students with a communicable disease must receive written medical clearance by a physician prior to return to clinical care activities.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines suggest that medical students with hepatitis B or HIV (HBV/HIV) seropositivity can continue to attend classes and participate in clinical clerkships and preceptorships. Prior to the start of the clinical

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experience, infected students are required to seek medical consultation by a physician to determine his/her ability to perform the duties required of the clinical rotation. It is the responsibility of each HBV/HIV infected medical student to notify the Office of Student Affairs of his/her status. All such notifications will be kept strictly confidential.

Students who are at high risk of infection from patients or other personnel because of their immune status or any other reason are encouraged to discuss their work responsibilities and educational activities with their personal health care provider. If the health care provider believes that there are certain assignments the individual should not accept for personal health reasons, this should be discussed with the appropriate administrator or the Executive Associate Dean for the Student Affairs. Accommodations may be available under the Technical Standards. Medical students with HBV/HIV seropositivity shall have periodic physical examinations by their private physician or medical staff at the University Health Services General Medical Clinic. Written health clearance will be provided to the Executive Associate Dean for Student Affairs who will notify the student’s Clerkship Director of his/her ability to return to practice direct patient care. All correspondence will be kept confidential and will not be used as a basis for discrimination.

The greatest theoretical risk of medical student-to-patient transmission of HIV or HBV involves invasive procedures with manipulation of needles or other sharp objects not under direct visualization. Medical students who have HBV/HIV seropositivity may not perform invasive procedures unless such activity is approved in writing by the student’s personal physician, and submitted confidentially to the clinical clerkship director and the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs or designee.

Medical students are not obligated to answer patient questions related to their own HBV/HIV status, nor shall they answer such questions related to other students, other health care personnel, or patients. Serologic testing of medical students for HBV/HIV antibody will not be performed routinely unless the person is seropositive (see above). Testing is recommended when there has been a documented needle or sharp instrument puncture or mucous membrane exposure to the blood or body fluids of patients, or when there has been a medical student-to-patient exposure. Refer to the “Needlestick” policies and procedures in this Handbook. 5. HIv/AIDS: Information and University PolicyHiV/aidS information:HIV/AIDS is an infectious disease caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). HIV attacks certain white blood cells called T-lymphocytes, leading to a progressively weakening immune system. Once infected, a person may have no symptoms for a variable period of


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time, usually five to ten years, or more. It may take anywhere from two weeks to six months or more after the initial infection, before one is able to detect the presence of antibody to HIV in the blood. However, the person is infectious and can pass the virus to others even before the HIV test becomes positive. Afterwards, symptoms may include enlarged lymph glands, low-grade fevers, sweats, weight loss, fatigue, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. With continued immune system destruction, a person living with HIV may develop serious opportunistic infections or cancers, leading to the terminal phase of HIV disease, known as Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Infections which characterize AIDS are usually caused by relatively common infectious agents, including bacteria, fungi, and other viruses. These agents take advantage of the weakened immune system of someone living with AIDS to cause potentially life-threatening infections and certain types of cancer.

HIV cannot be contracted through casual contact, like touching, hugging, kissing, or sharing eating utensils, telephones, or restroom facilities. There is no scientific evidence for transmission by mosquitoes. Transmission of the virus can only occur via unprotected sexual contact (oral, vaginal, or anal), sharing contaminated needles, direct contact with

infected blood, breast milk, or from a pregnant mother to her fetus. The risk of acquiring HIV from tainted blood during a transfusion is very low since all donated blood is tested for the presence of HIV. There is absolutely no risk of getting infected by donating blood.

Certain types of behaviors increase the chances of acquiring HIV infection and include:

− Injecting drugs, using contaminated needles (i.e., body piercing, tatooes)− Being the sex partner of someone who injects drugs or shares needles− Being a sex partner of someone with HIV infection− Having multiple sex partners

Persons who know or suspect that they are HIV seropositive are encouraged to seek expert medical care, and are ethically and legally responsible to protect others from acquiring HIV. In South Florida, there is a higher incidence of HIV than in almost anywhere in the United States; approximately one in forty people living in Miami-Dade County is infected with HIV, with the greatest majority being asymptomatic.

to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus:

− Do not share needles;

− If you are sexually active, always use a latex condom. Only use water-based lubricants, never petroleum-based lubricants. The virus may be transmitted via the exchange of blood, vaginal fluid, and semen, and can readily occur during unprotected vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Abstinence from sexual intercourse and alcohol/drug use is the only way to remain absolutely protected. Remember, condoms need to be always used properly and they may break.

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− Ask about the health of your partner and his/her past sexual activity. This is hard to do, but is very important if you want to better ensure safer sex;

− Maintain mutually monogamous relationships;

− Do not use drugs or alcohol before sex, as they impair your judgment and can depress your immune system; and

− Be certain proper sterilization procedures are followed before receiving acupuncture, tattoos and body piercings.

− To minimize your chances of acquiring any viral illness, it is always prudent to follow a healthy lifestyle, which includes eating a diet high in complex carbohydrates and low in fats, getting adequate rest, exercising regularly, not smoking, and effectively managing stress.

For more information concerning HIV/AIDS visit the FIU University Health Services website at www.fiu.edu/~health.

florida international university HiV/aidS PolicyStudents and employees of Florida International University who may become infected with the HIV virus will not be excluded from enrollment or employment, or restricted in their access to University services or facilities, unless individual medical evaluation establishes that such exclusion or restrictions are necessary for the welfare of the individual and/or other members of the University community. FIU has established an HIV/AIDS Committee with membership including FIU students, faculty, administrators, and staff, as well as representatives from several community organizations committed to HIV/AIDS education and treatment. The Committee meets as needed and is responsible for monitoring the medical, psychosocial, and administrative developments regarding HIV/AIDS for the FIU community. Additional responsibilities include administration and implementation of the FIU policy in specific cases and coordination of all University educational activities emphasizing proactive prevention. In addition, the Committee will meet as needed to consider individual cases which may require University action.

Contacts: Oscar Loynaz, MD – Interim Director, University Health Services Elvira Velez, ARNP – Director, University Health Services at BBC

Locations: University Health Services Complex 281, Modesto A. Maidique Campus Health Care Center, BBC

Phones: 305-348-2401, Modesto A. Maidique Campus 305-919-5620, BBC


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6. Biosafety Policy: Occupational Exposure to Infectious Materials The Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine has adopted the FIU policy regarding the exposure to infectious materials and environmental hazards. The policy has been developed using contemporary knowledge available regarding these issues and is based on established principles of epidemiology, disease prevention, and infection control. The policy applies to all students.

definitions: 1. “Student”=anindividualenrolledinclassesattheHerbertWertheimCollegeofMedicine.

2. “Blood-borne Pathogen” = an infectious disease transmitted by blood includinghuman immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B (HBV) or hepatitis C (HCV), or any infectious disease primarily transmitted in blood.

3. “BodySubstancePrecautions”= amethodof infection controlwherepotentiallyinfectious materials are treated as if known to be infectious for HIV, HBV, HCV and other blood-borne pathogens.

4. “Blood”=humanblood,includingitscomponentsandderivedproducts.

5. “Occupational Exposure Incident” = an inoculation involving eye, mouth, non-intact skin, mucous membranes; or injection contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials; or exposure to an environmental hazard that results from an activity related to education or employment.

6. “OtherPotentially InfectiousMaterials”=semen,vaginalsecretions,cerebrospinalfluid, synovial fluid, pleural fluid, peritoneal fluid, amniotic fluid, sputum, urine, feces, concentrated HIV, HBV and HCV viruses, aerosolized particles, and saliva.

7. “AirbornePathogen”=an infectiousdisease transmittedviaaerosolizedparticlesincluding tuberculosis, chicken pox (Varicella), and measles.

8. “EnvironmentalHazard”=anyexposurewhichmayhavehealthrepercussions,suchas chemical spills or radiation.

9. “PersonalProtectiveEquipment”=specializedclothingorequipmentwornbyanemployee or student for protection against a hazard. General work clothes (e.g., uniforms, pants, shirts, or blouses) not intended to function as protection against a hazard are not considered to be personal protective equipment.

The Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine strives to safeguard the health and well being of its students, faculty, residents, staff, and patients. It is the policy of the College to treat in a sensitive and compassionate manner, an individual infected with any blood-borne or airborne pathogen, including HIV. The College does not discriminate against any individuals with such an infection and complies with all applicable federal and state laws.

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Ultimately, each student is responsible for his/her health and safety while in the clinical setting. Therefore, all students will be required to learn about the appropriate policies and procedures to follow in the event that they are injured or potentially exposed to blood borne pathogens or other communicable diseases. Universal precautions must be followed both in the laboratory as well as in the clinical care setting by all students, faculty, and staff who may be exposed to blood and other body fluids of another individual.

education and trainingAll students initially receive general information pertaining to the prevention and transmission of occupational exposures during the Orientation to the College. During this time, students will be required to receive an immunization to hepatitis B, meningitis, varicella, and skin testing for TB if not documented on the history and physical exam form submitted prior to registration. More formal clinical information about the prevention and pathophysiology of all infectious diseases that might potentially be transmitted in a clinical care setting is provided prior to the start of clinical clerkships. This would include education regarding hepatitis A, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, TB, varicella, influenza, meningitis, and HIV.

Required education of medical students on universal blood and body fluid precautions

During orientation sessions for first year students and prior to the start of the clinical clerkships, students will receive information on universal blood and body fluid precautions, infection control and prevention of the spread of communicable disease. During the first day students are assigned to work at a clinical rotation site, the faculty at the affiliate site will provide information regarding the policies and procedures at their respective site that students must follow in case of exposure, as described above. In addition to the formal presentations and personalized review of the policies and procedures at the respective clinical care sites (FIU and the affiliate hospitals), students are encouraged to view the following online tutorials sponsored by the FIU department of Environmental Health and Safety:

− Needlestick prevention− Blood-borne pathogens (sharps, micro-organisms, exposure control)− Biohazardous waste – exposure control and safety precautions − Personal Protective Equipment− Infection Control− TB Awareness− Health Care Safety Orientation

Tutorials are available at: http://www.fiuehs.com/health.aspx.


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Advance online registration is required. Students must print the certificate of completion for each self-directed online tutorial and bring it to the Office of Student Affairs at least one day prior to the first day of clinical care. Annual renewals are required.

Infection control policies are established for the surveillance, prevention, and control of infection caused by a variety of microorganisms. These guidelines include definitions, symptoms, mode of transmission, as well as prevention and control information. Blood, semen, and vaginal fluids are the three most potentially infectious body fluids but other body fluids such as cerebrospinal fluid, synovial fluid, pericardial fluid, peritoneal fluid, amniotic fluid, and unfixed body tissues should be considered potentially infectious, especially if contaminated with blood. Universal precautions should always be followed, even when handling fluids and tissues which are not normally infectious such as saliva, feces, urine, sweat, sputum, vomitus, and tears; it should be noted that these body fluids carry a greater risk of infection if contaminated with visible blood, sometimes an accidental occurrence or complication of patient contact and procedures.

Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine (HWCOM) follows the institutional policies of its parent university regarding exposure to infectious and environmental hazards on campus, and the institutional policies of its clinical affiliates regarding exposure to infectious and environmental hazards while at the clinical sites.

To protect students from the risks of being occupationally infected with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B virus, or other bloodborne pathogens and to implement the OSHA Standard 29 CFR Section 1910.1030 Bloodborne Pathogens. Policies and procedures, including specific reporting forms and surveillance information are located on the FIU Environmental Health and Safety and Risk Management Services website (www.fiu.edu/~ehs) and are summarized below, as follows:

a. Each Dean, Director or Department head, in consultation with the Department of Environmental Health & Safety and the FIU Office of Human Resources is responsible for determining what job classifications are subject to regulation by the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, hereafter referred to as the “Standard”.

b. The Department of Environmental Health & Safety shall write and maintain a current “Exposure Control Plan for the University” which establishes a program to assure compliance with the Standard.

C. Deans, directors, chairpersons, principal investigators, laboratory instructors, and line supervisors shall assure compliance with the requirements established in the University ECP. Individuals responsible for assuring compliance with this policy shall correct violations upon detection. Disciplinary actions shall be taken as needed.

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d. Hepatitis B vaccinations shall be offered to all individuals occupationally exposed and provided free of charge to employees who are subject to regulation by the Standard. Payment shall be made by the employee’s department.

The FIU Environmental Health and Safety and Risk Management Services Biosafety program publishes guidelines and precautions to prevent self-exposure to bloodborne pathogens in all areas at the University where the potential for exposure exists (e.g., labs and clinics).

FIU HWCOM Policy on Exposure to Infectious and Environmental Hazards at Affiliated Clinical SitesThe FIU HWCOM follows the Biosafety policy and procedures of the FIU Department of Environmental Health and Safety and Risk Management Services. HWCOM clerkships and preceptorships are conducted at various clinical sites throughout the South Florida region. Medical students receive site-specific policies during the clinical orientation prior to their work at each site. In addition, syllabi for the HWCOM clerkships contain the following policy.

HWCom Policy on exposure to infectious and environmental Hazards: an outline • All exposure incidents are regarded as serious and must be reported and

documented immediately to the physician faculty member on call.

• Firstaidshallbeimmediatelyadministeredforalltypesofinjuries,includingcutsandburns; the exposed areas should be thoroughly washed with soap and water.

• Thephysicianfacultysupervisingthestudentshallbeinformedimmediately.Ifnofacultymember is immediately present, the student will contact the faculty member on call.

• TheSupervisorshallattempttoobtainwitnessreportsoftheincident.

• The Supervisor and employee shall attempt to determine the nature of theexposure(s) and any associated biohazardous risks, including documentation of routes of exposure(s).

• Ifpossible,thesourcematerialoftheexposureshouldberetainedandsecuredinasafe manner.

• IftheSupervisordeterminesthattheincidentconstitutesanoccupationalexposureto biohazardous materials then he/she will immediately begin documentation of the incident using the bloodborne pathogen Exposure Incident Investigation Form, which can be downloaded from the FIU Environmental Health and Safety website (www.fiu.edu/~ehs).

• Allinformationrelatedtostudentexposureshallberegardedasconfidential.


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• Documentationshall includetheactivityinwhichthestudentwasengagedatthetime of exposure, the extent to which appropriate work practices and protective equipment were used, and a description of the source of exposure.

• Oncampusinjuries:ThestudentisdirectedtotheUniversityHealthServices(UHS)during usual business hours for appropriate follow-up. If the incident occurs after working hours, or requires emergency care, then the student will be directed to the nearest Emergency department for proper evaluation.

• Off-campus injuries: The medical student will be directed to seek care at thehospital’s emergency department (according to the clinical affiliation agreement), or referred to the closest outpatient clinic.

• Thestudentassumes the responsibility forall chargesassociatedwithdiagnosisand treatment of exposure injuries that are not covered by his/her health insurance plan. A student may request the College’s assistance by discussing the situation with a dean in the Office of Student Affairs.

• StudentsshouldfollowupwithUHSorwiththeirprimarycarephysician.

education of Students about methods of PreventionThe Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine (HWCOM) is diligent in educating students in precautionary and infection control measures for airborne and bloodborne pathogens prior to students’ first contact with patients and first contact with human tissue, blood products, and body fluids. Ultimately, each student is responsible for his/her health and safety in the clinical/educational setting; therefore, it is the goal of HWCOM that all students learn appropriate policies and procedures to follow in the event that they are injured or potentially exposed to bloodborne pathogens or other communicable diseases.

The FIU Department of Environmental Health and Safety and Risk Management Services manages cases of occupational exposure for students and staff. The FIU Medical Surveillance Program assures students, faculty, and staff with the opportunity to identify potentially hazardous exposures and modify research or work practices and procedures which could compromise their health. The FIU policies and procedures pertaining to exposure to contaminated body fluids (e.g., a needlestick injury) in both laboratory and clinical care settings apply to students as well as employees, and are available online at http://www.fiu.edu/~ehs/med_surv/medical_surv.htm.

Policies regarding Procedures for Post-exposure Care and treatment Students who become exposed to contaminated body fluids while on the FIU campus must follow established FIU protocols to receive timely diagnostic and therapeutic care.

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Depending on the level of complexity, diagnostic testing and treatment may be provided at the University Health Services Center (UHSC) General Medical Clinic during normal business hours. For more complex care, or for exposures that take place when the FIU UHSC clinics are closed, the student is referred to an outpatient facility in the local community to obtain care. Policies and procedures, including specific reporting forms and surveillance information are located on the FIU Environmental Health and Safety and Risk Management Services website (www.fiu.edu/~ehs).

Students who become exposed to contaminated body fluids while at an FIU-affiliated clinical site follow established protocols at that site for immediate care and treatment after exposure. In case of exposure to blood and other body fluids while visiting their family households as part of the Green Family Foundation NeighborhoodHELP™ program, students should follow the procedural guidelines of FIU Biosafety plan. Medical students may receive follow-up care and treatment for exposures that occur at any clinical or household site that is located off-campus at the FIU UHSC clinics or through their private physician. Students will be excused from clinical activities in order to seek medical care.

effects of infectious and/or environmental disease or disability on Student educational activitiesStudents infected with blood-borne or other pathogens shall not, solely because of such infection, be excluded from participation in any phase of medical school life, including educational opportunities, employment, and extra-curricular activities, except as otherwise required by applicable federal, state, or local law or unless their health care condition presents a direct threat to the health and safety of themselves or others. Students infected with airborne pathogens will be excluded from participation in such activities during the infectious stage of their disease. Students who know or who have reasonable basis for believing that they are infected with blood-borne or airborne pathogens are expected to seek medical care at the FIU UHSC or from their private physician.

Students with communicable diseases or conditions are not permitted to engage in patient contact until such conditions have resolved, as documented by a physician. This restriction is necessary to protect the health and safety of patients and staff. Persons with the following medical conditions are not allowed patient contact without prior medical clearance:

•Activechickenpox,measles,Germanmeasles,herpeszoster(shingles),acutehepatitis,and tuberculosis.

•Oralherpeswithdraininglesions.•GroupAstreptococcaldisease(strepthroat)until24hoursafterinitiationoftreatment.•Drainingorinfectedskinlesions.


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If an ill student is unsure whether he/she should participate in patient care, the student should contact the clinical staff at FIU University Health Services. Students who are at high risk of infection from patients or other personnel because of their immune status or any other reason are encouraged to discuss their work responsibilities and educational activities with their personal health care provider. If the health care provider believes that there are certain assignments the individual should not accept due to personal health reasons, this should be discussed with his/her faculty supervisor. In some cases, students may be unable to participate fully in medical school life or meet the Technical Standards of the HWCOM because of their disease. In these cases, the individual should contact either one of the deans in the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) or the psychologist at the HWCOM Counseling and Wellness Center for a referral to the FIU Disability Resource Center to discuss the existence and nature of the disability and whether reasonable accommodations are available.

If a student’s exposure results in the contraction of a disease or disability, the student will be allowed to continue in the education program with as little disruption as safely possible depending on the circumstances. The student’s specific medical circumstances will be confidentially evaluated on a case-by-case basis and non-discriminatory recommendations regarding the student’s progress through medical school may be submitted to the MSEPC for appropriate action, if necessary.

All medical students, including visiting students, will receive an orientation to the blood-borne pathogen policy of the affiliate hospital prior to commencing laboratory and/or patient care activities. The sponsoring faculty member will be responsible for ensuring that any visiting students receive the appropriate training and orientation prior to starting laboratory or clinical work at FIU or one of its clinical affiliates. In addition, the sponsoring faculty member is responsible for ensuring the proper procedures are followed in the event

of a potential exposure.

Medical Student Protocols Following Exposure to Biohazardous MaterialsImmediately after known exposure, medical students must contact their clinical instructor or attending physician and report the name of the source patient, medical record number, room number, and diagnosis. This information is necessary to assist in determining the potential severity of the exposure. Appropriate and immediate first aid and a tetanus booster should be administered when indicated.

Students who experience needlestick and other types of injuries at hospitals, ambulatory clinics, or neighborhood households must immediately notify their physician supervisor. In all cases, students receive immediate first aid and initial care at the site where the injury

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occurred. Based on the type of incident and/or the time of the incident, students may be referred to the nearest hospital emergency department, University Health Services, or to their primary care physician for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up.

All affiliation agreements with clinical care sites contain provisions for the care of students who sustain needlestick injuries. The Clinical Affiliate Deans at each hospital and outpatient clinical site are informed about HWCOM’s needlestick policy and procedures and given periodic updates by the Executive Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs or designee. Students are responsible for the payment of fees associated with the diagnostic and therapeutic services associated with needlestick and other types of injuries, including filing health insurance claims. The staff in the Office of Student Affairs assists students with the filing of their insurance claims and providing excused medical absences, as necessary, for students to receive required follow-up care.

Policy and Procedures on universal Precautions and exposure to infectious and environmental Hazards:

a. Standard universal Precautions: When providing patient care, regardless of the real or perceived communicable

disease status of the patient, all students and staff should follow standard universal precautions:

1. Always wash hands before and after patient contact, according to the policy of the clinical site, even if gloves are used.

2. Always wear gloves when exposure to blood, body fluids, excretions or secretions is likely.

3. Use gloves appropriately according to aseptic and/or sterile techniques and always change gloves between patients.

4. Wear gowns/aprons when soiling of clothing with blood or body fluids is likely.

5. Wear masks, face shields, and eye protection when aerosolization of blood or body fluids may occur.

6. Dispose of sharps in designated rigid sharp containers. Never recap needles by hand.

7. Dispose of waste saturated with blood or body fluids in designated red-bag trash containers.


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b. Policy and Procedures for exposure incidents:

1. All exposure incidents will be regarded as serious and must be reported and documented immediately to the faculty member on call and to the Office of Student Affairs after hours emergency phone line 305-348-0696.

2. First aid shall be immediately administered for any types of injuries, including cuts, and the areas exposed should be thoroughly washed with soap and water.

3. The faculty supervising the student shall be informed immediately. If no faculty member is immediately present, the student will call the faculty member on call.

4. The Supervisor shall attempt to obtain witness reports of the incident.

5. The Supervisor and employee shall attempt to determine the nature of the exposure(s) and any biohazards that are associated with it. This includes documentation of routes of exposure(s).

6. If possible the source material of the exposure should be retained and secured in a safe manner.

7. If the Supervisor determines that the incident constitutes an occupational exposure to biohazardous materials then he/she will immediately begin documentation of the incident by contacting the Florida International University Environmental Health and Safety and Risk Management Services.

8. All information related to student exposure shall be regarded as confidential.

9. Documentation shall include the activity in which the student was engaged at the time of exposure, the extent to which appropriate work practices and protective equipment were used, and a description of the source of exposure.

10. The student will be directed to the University Health Services Center for appropriate follow-up if it is during normal working hours. If the incidence occurs after working hours, or requires emergency care, then the student should be directed to the nearest Emergency Room for proper evaluation.

11. Upon exposure to blood and body fluid, the student assumes the responsibility for all charges associated with diagnosis and treatment that are not covered by his/her health insurance plan.

12. Students should follow up with the FIU University Health Services General Medical Clinic or with their primary care physician.

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Universal Blood and Body Fluid Precaution Guidelines

ProceduresWash Hands

Gloves Gown Mask Eyewear

Talking with patients, shaking hands, adjusting IV fluid rate or noninvasive equipment

X

Examining patients without touching blood, body fluids, mucous membranes

X

Examining a patient with a significant cough X X

Examining a patient including contact with blood, body fluids, mucous membranes, drainage

X X

Suctioning X X Use a gown, mask, and/or eyewear if bloody body fluid spattering is likely

Handling soiled waste, linen, or other materials X X

Use a gown, mask, and/or eyewear only if waste or linen is extensively contaminated and spattering is likely;

Procedures that produce extensive spattering of blood or body fluids & are likely to soil clothes

X X X X X

Biosafety Education and Prevention

One of the primary objectives of the FIU Biosafety policy is to encourage student education

about HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B, and other infectious agents and environmental hazards.

Education is the best form of prevention. All HWCOM students receive information about

prevention of exposure to infectious diseases, particularly from contaminated body

fluids, during Orientation. More formal and clinical education about prevention and the

pathophysiology of infectious diseases that could potentially be transmitted in a clinical

care setting (e.g., hepatitis B, hepatitis C, TB, varicella, influenza, and HIV) is provided

during the Clinical Skills course within the first month of classes during Period 1.

Prior to the start of clinical rotations, HWCOM students are required to demonstrate

competence in needlestick prevention, bloodborne pathogens (sharps, microorganisms,

exposure control), and biohazardous waste (exposure control and safety precautions).

Confidentiality and testingAs with any blood-borne exposure, appropriate documentation is necessary. The clinical

site and the College require that a formal report of the exposure incident or unusual

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occurrence be filed. The student will need to complete the FIU “Exposure Incident

Investigation Form” as discussed above. The College shall respect the confidentiality of

individuals with blood-borne or airborne pathogens to the extent permitted by state and

federal law. Students and personnel will not be tested for HIV without their knowledge or

consent, except that in certain circumstances testing may be a condition of employment

or may be required by occupational exposure incident protocols. In cases of non-

occupational exposure, confidential testing is available through University Health Services,

the student’s private health insurance company, or the Miami-Dade Health Department.

Students with blood-borne and airborne infectionsAcquisition of infections from patients and staff particularly due to respiratory pathogens is an

all too frequent and avoidable event. To help protect students from this risk of nosocomially-

acquired infection, the College has implemented a broad, multi-level educational program on

respiratory pathogens. This program is based on the CDC/National Institute for Occupational

Safety and Health (NIOSH) curriculum on respiratory protection, with a presentation on current

guidelines on prevention of respiratory infections. Students are taught about blood-borne and

respiratory pathogens and protection guidelines based on CDC/NIOSH recommendations. A

second presentation on blood-borne and respiratory pathogens and guidelines for prevention

is given preceding the beginning of clinical rotations in the third year. At this time, further

instruction on the technique of using personal protective equipment will be taught.

7. Needlestick Injury: Potential Blood-borne Pathogen Exposure

The FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, working in conjunction with the FIU

Department of Environmental Health and Safety, provides a system in which all medical

students, including visiting students, must report all accidental exposures to blood and

other potentially hazardous biological fluids that occur through accidental needlestick

injury. This process is necessary for the following reasons:

− to quickly evaluate the risk of infection

− to inform the exposed student about treatments available to help prevent infection,

− to monitor for side effects of treatments, and

− to determine if infection subsequently occurs

This process initially involves the immediate provision of appropriate first aid, including

simple washing the exposed area that was punctured by the needle with soap and water.

The student must immediately contact his/her clinical supervisor to report the incident as

described in the Biosafety Plan. The student needs to also complete the FIU Environmental

Health and Safety Incident Report Form, located online at http://www.fiu.edu/~ehs.

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Subsequently, the student may require blood testing to rule out the presence of hepatitis

B, HIV, and/or other infectious agents in both the index patient as well as the student. The

plan provides for appropriate post-exposure treatment and addresses the key aspects

of OSHA Directive 29 CFR Part 1910.1030, Post-exposure Evaluation and Follow-up

http://www.osha.gov.

Any patient identified as a candidate for post-exposure HIV prophylaxis as a result of this

protocol is to be immediately referred to one of the College’s hospital affiliates or local

ambulatory care center for initiation of these medications as prescribed by the medical staff.

It should be noted that locating and testing the source individual is critical for appropriate

management, including immediate and follow-up testing of the student and/or source and,

if medically indicated (e.g., HIV infection), for the student to receive prophylactic antiretroviral

medication as soon as possible, preferably within two hours of exposure.

The “Selected Measures of Access to and Utilization of Treatment and Prophylaxis

for HIV-infected Persons” is available at the Centers for Disease Control website:

http://www.cdc.gov.

8. Workers’ Compensation

Because students are not employees of the FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine

nor its clinical affiliate sites, they are not eligible for Worker’s Compensation coverage.

Therefore, treatment for illness or injuries incurred as a medical student will be the

responsibility of the student via his/her private health insurance plan.


The College expects medical students to abide by the FIU policies on the use of

information technology. Those policies can be found at:

• Overallpolicies:policies.fiu.edu/files/96.pdf

• DataStewardshippolicy:policies.fiu.edu/record_profile.php?id=560

• DigitalMillenniumCopyrightActpolicy:policies.fiu.edu/files/545.pdf

• Gramm-Leach-BilleyAct:SafeguardstoProtectConfidentialFinancialInformation:

policies.fiu.edu/files/129.pdf

• InformationTechnologySecurity:policies.fiu.edu/files/96.pdf

• ITSecurityProcedure:SharingAccessto ITResources;PasswordManagement:

policies.fiu.edu/files/559.pdf

• IT Security Procedure: System and Application Management: policies.fiu.edu/

files/562.pdf


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• AccessSharingpolicy: policies.fiu.edu/record_profile.php?id=559

• InternetSoftwareUsagepolicy: policies.fiu.edu/files/545.pdf

• ITSecurityOfficepolicyintheFIUStudentHandbook:www.fiu.edu/student.htm

The College will provide laptop computers to medical students for educational purposes

only. Students have no expectation of privacy with respect to information stored within or

the use of these laptops. Students must take personal responsibility for the security of the

portable computer and mobile device, software and data in their care. In the event that the

laptop computer is misused and damaged, the medical student shall be responsible for the

replacement cost of the computer.

Medical students are expected to keep all health information confidential and to not disclose

such information unless necessary and appropriate to fulfill educational and/or patient care

needs. There are State of Florida and federal laws that govern the confidentiality, privacy,

and security of health information and records. Consequently, students will become

educated about and abide by laws, policies and procedures regarding the use, disclosure

and dissemination of health information. In particular, health information that is accessed and

retained electronically must be kept private and secure via encryption using Sharepoint as the

storage device of sensitive documents. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability

Act of 1996 and its amendments establish the minimum protections for health information. In

addition, there are State of Florida and federal laws that require special consents for disclosure

of sensitive health information such as HIV status and mental health records.

There will be education on the policies of the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine clinical

affiliates and on policies adopted by the College in preparation for the clinical experiences.

The College provides medical students access to network resources such as computers,

printers, network peripherals, software, e-mail, and internet access for academic

purposes. Students must abide by the technology policies and regulations governing

both the University as well as those that are specific to the Information Technology (IT)

department of HWCOM. The policies contained in this document are to ensure that

technological resources provided by HWCOM are utilized in a manner consistent with the

educational goals of HWCOM and the University.

e-mail PolicyOnly the College’s faculty, staff, students, and other persons who have received permission

under the appropriate authority are authorized users of the FIU e-mail systems and resources.

Use of e-mail is permitted and encouraged where such use supports the University’s

academic goals and facilitate communication between faculty and students. However, if a


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student uses email in an unacceptable manner, he or she is subject to sanctions, including

but not limited to, having his or her campus e-mail account deactivated. The student will

receive an initial warning and reports of any subsequent violations will be to the Medical

Student Evaluation and Promotion Committee for final recommendations and action.

unacceptable use of e-mail Unacceptable uses of e-mail include, but are not limited to:

− Distributing, disseminating or storing images, text or materials that might be

considered discriminatory, offensive or abusive, in that the context is a personal

attack, sexist or racist, or might be considered as harassment.

− Use of e-mail systems for any purpose restricted or prohibited by laws or regulations.

− “Spoofing,” i.e., constructing an e-mail communication so it appears to be from

someone else.

− “Snooping,” i.e., obtaining access to the files or e-mail of others for the purpose of

satisfying idle curiosity, with no substantial academic purpose.

− Attempting unauthorized access to e-mail or attempting to breach any security

measures on any e-mail system, or attempting to intercept any e-mail transmissions

without proper authorization.

− Chain mail that misuses or disrupts resources: E-mail sent repeatedly from user to

user, with requests to send to others.

− Introducing any form of computer virus or malware into the network.

− Sending copies of documents in violation of copyright laws

− Inclusion of the work of others into e-mail communications in violation of copyright laws

Portable Computers and mobile devices PolicyPortable computer and mobile device users must take personal responsibility for the

security of the equipment, software and data in their care. Students will be provided with

a laptop (tablet) computer which is the property of FIU and upon which, will be subject

to random software scans and antivirus updates. The laptops will contain the necessary

operating system and software to complete the four years of medical school. Students

pay a technology fee to the HWCOM which includes extended warranty to cover four (4)

years. Since these are leased for academic purposes, students should understand that

there is no reasonable expectation of privacy.

Additional Regulations pertaining to the use of the College laptop computers (tablets):

− Unauthorized or unlicensed software must not be loaded on laptops.

− Students must ensure that the laptop or mobile device is not used by unauthorized

persons.

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− Students must take all reasonable steps to ensure that the laptop or mobile device

is not damaged through misuse.

− The IT department of the College will house spare laptops in the event that the unit

requires repair or maintenance. Since the laptop will have a “standardized” image –

there will little or no disruption in service to the student as the student’s data will be

housed on the network drives and backed up daily.

− All students will have access to both “Mysite” and the Sharepoint web portal and are

encouraged to regularly save all data to the network drives and a central location,

i.e., Sharepoint. The College will not be responsible for any loss of data on the

laptops themselves.

− Laptops or mobile devices should never be left unattended in public places (e.g.,

car, library, restaurant, restroom, etc.). Laptops or mobile devices in cars must be

stored out of sight when the car is left unattended.

− Students must return the laptop or mobile device to the IT department in the College

for regular health checks or when requested.

− Students must immediately report any possible security breaches to the IT

department of the College (e.g., laptop stolen or misplaced); Public Safety may

need to also be notified should it be discovered that the laptop was stolen.

− Students must not access porn sites using the College laptop; this is also a violation

of University policy Students must abide by all of the IT policies of the University in

addition to those specifically for the College. This includes all HIPAA and FERPA

regulations pertaining to security and privacy.


Policy on Medical Student Records

The FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine (HWCOM) Director of Admissions and Records

is the custodian of all medical student records and has the responsibility of maintaining the

security of those records. The Executive Associate Dean and the Assistant Deans for Student

Affairs have oversight responsibility of medical student records security and storage. Medical

student records are maintained in locked, fire-proof file cabinets in the Office of Student

Affairs. HWCOM retains all student records in accordance with Liaison Committee on Medical

Education (LCME), Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), federal and state

requirements, and Florida International University Board of Trustees regulations.

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The maintenance and responsibility of student records generally follows the guidelines

contained in the AAMC Handbook for Student Records Administrators, November 2008

(http://www.aamc.org/members/gsa/committees/cosr/handbook08.pdf).

Documents related to the student’s medical education are maintained in the current

student file. The student file may be in electronic format and/or consist of paper records.

The student file may include:

• MedicalStudentPerformanceEvaluation(MSPE)

• Courseandclerkshipgrades

• Clinicalrotationschedules

• Narrativeevaluationsofclerkship/electiveperformance

• Lettersofcommendationand/ornotificationsofhonors

• Informationaboutleavesofabsence

• Combineddegreeprogramenrollmentinformation

• Scholarshipawardletters

• Specialregistrations

• ScorereportsfromUSMLEStepexaminations

• Recordsofdisciplinaryactions

• Documentationrelatedtotransfertoorfromthemedicalschoolandofwithdrawal

and/or dismissal.

• DirectoryInformation

The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (U.S. Public Law 93-579; FERPA)

allows for the designation of certain academic record information as “directory.” In order

to prevent access to or release of directory information, a student must so notify the

designated custodian of record in writing within the time provided in the annual FIU Notice

of Rights. Access to or release of directory information is withheld until further written

instruction is received from the student.

In keeping with state law and school policies, student records are retained for a specific

period based on content as identified in the AAMC’s Guidelines for Maintaining Active and

Permanent Individual Student Records, March 2005 http://www.aamc.org/members/

gsa/active_permanent_records0305.pdf.

Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine (HWCOM) adheres to the Florida International

University Board of Trustees regulation FIU-108 Access to Student Education Records.

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The University and HWCOM does not release or permit access to education records and

personally identifiable information kept on a student except as otherwise permitted by law

and this regulation. Responsibility for custody of all student educational records belongs

to the Dean of the College, Vice President, or the University officials in charge of the area

in which the records are maintained. Each Dean, Vice President or designated custodian

shall ensure that the procedures required by federal and Florida law and this regulation are

in place to control access to and disclosure of student education records and personally

identifiable information contained therein. An excerpt from FIU-108 Access to Student

Education Records follows:

Policies and Procedures for access and release of Student records Personally identifiable information contained in student education records shall be

released, or open for inspection, only to the student, or parents of dependent students

as defined in Section 152 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. “Personally identifiable”

means that the data or information includes the name of a student, the student’s parent,

or other family member, the address of the student, a personal identifier, such as the

student’s social security number or a student number, a list of personal characteristics

which would make the student’s identity easily traceable or other information which would

make the student’s identity easily traceable.

The custodian of the records shall require the student, or parents of the student when

applicable, requesting access to or release of the records to present proper identification such

as a valid driver’s license or passport. The request must be in writing and signed by the person

seeking access or release. A copy of the request for access or release shall be retained in the

student’s file. The custodian shall have thirty (30) days in which to comply with the request.

When the record includes information on more than one student, the custodian shall release,

or permit access to only that part of the record which relates to the student who is the subject

of the request. Students requesting the release to others of personally identifiable information

contained in the student’s education records must provide the custodian of such records with

a signed, written request specifying the information to be released, the purpose(s) for such

release, and the person or organization to whom such information shall be released.

A copy of all requests for access and release shall be retained by the custodian of the

records and shall be available for inspection and review by the student or a parent. The

University reserves the right to deny a request for copies of education records made by a

student or a parent when there is a financial obligation to the University which has not been

satisfied or when there is an unresolved disciplinary action pending against the student.

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access to and release of records without Consent The following persons and organizations are considered “university officials” and may have

access to personally identifiable information without the student’s prior consent:

a) Faculty, administrators, staff and consultants employed by the University, the Florida

International University Board of Trustees, or the Florida Board of Governors whose

work involves:

- Performance of administrative tasks which relate to students;

- Performance of supervisory or instructional tasks which relate to students; or

- Performance of services which benefit students.

b) Other persons who are authorized by federal and state law and regulations to have

access to or receive copies of such information.

directory information a) It is the University’s policy to release and publish directory information regarding its

students. “Directory Information” includes:

- Student’s name, local and permanent address, and telephone number(s);

- Date and place of birth;

- Student classification and major and minor fields of study;

- Participation in officially recognized activities and sports;

- Weight and height of members of athletic teams;

- Dates of attendance, degrees and awards received;

- The most recent previous educational agency or institution attended by the

student; and

- Photographic image

b) In order to prevent access to or release of directory information, a student, or the

parents of a dependent student, must so notify the designated custodian of record

in writing within the time provided in the annual Notice of Rights. Access to, or

release of directory information will be withheld until further written instruction is

received from the student, or the parents of a dependent student.

feesThe University will charge the following fees for furnishing copies of student records and

reports, or any material included therein:

- Copies of official transcripts – Ten dollars ($10.00).

- Copies of all other educational records – Fifteen cents ($.15) per page for

copying, plus any administrative costs incurred for search, retrieval and mailing.


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family education rights and Privacy act of 1974 (ferPa) noticeThe University shall provide notification annually to students of their rights relating to education

records, including the right to file complaints, the procedures to be followed in order to

exercise such rights, the types of information entered in the education records maintained by

the University, and the University’s policy to support the law. Notifications are published in the

University catalog, the Student Handbook and the Fall Semester class schedule.

Waiver of right of access1. Students and parents of dependent students have the right to waive their right

of access to confidential letters of recommendation and other documents which

evaluate student academic performance. Such waivers shall be in writing and made

a part of the official academic record. A waiver of right to access shall be effective

only when the student are notified, upon request, of the names of all persons who are

submitting confidential recommendations or evaluations and when the confidential

letters of recommendation and other evaluative documents are used solely for the

purpose intended.

2. The University may not condition admission to the University, grants of financial aid,

or receipt of any other service or benefit offered by the University, by another public

educational institution in the State of Florida or by any other public agency upon

being provided a waiver of the right to access by the student.

requests for information in Connection with research1. All requests for academic research dealing with data from student education records

shall be referred to the University Registrar and to the Provost. Such requests must

be in writing and must set forth specifically the type(s) of information to which access

is requested and the intended scope of the research project.

2. The applicable custodian of records and the Provost shall determine whether to grant

the request, in whole or in part, and may condition access upon a guarantee that

the researcher will appropriately safeguard the data; that no personally identifiable

information about any individual will be published or made available to others; or,

upon other reasonable conditions.

Procedure for Students to review their records in a timely mannerStudents may access their files by submitting a written request to the Director of Admissions

and Records, who serves as the custodian of records. The request must be reasonable

regarding scheduling. Reasonable implies that the request should be made during normal

working hours of the Office of Student Affairs where the records are maintained. Requests

are usually honored within 48 hours unless the custodian or designee is not available. The

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student may review his/her file under supervision. Supervision will be by a member of the

Dean’s staff to authenticate that the record is not altered during the review process. FIU

policy states that the school has up to thirty (30) days to honor a student’s written request

for access to their records.

Procedure for Students to Challenge their education recordsA medical student may challenge a document in their record by following the procedures

below:

(1) The student may directly request repair of record to the source of the record (Course

Director/Clerkship Director, Faculty, and Instructor).

(2) The student may file a written request for amendment with the custodian of records.

(3) The student may request a meeting with the Executive Associate Dean for Student

Affairs to identify the challenge and request repair of the record.

(4) The student may file request for a hearing appealing decision.

Students who challenge the accuracy of student education records shall file a written request for

amendment with the custodian of the records. The student shall also present to the custodian

of the records copies of all available evidence relating to the data or material being challenged.

The custodian of the records shall consider the request and shall notify the student in writing

within fifteen (15) school days whether the request will be granted or denied. During that time,

any challenge may be settled informally between the student and the custodian of the records,

in consultation with other appropriate HWCOM officials. If an agreement is reached, it shall be in

writing and signed by all parties involved. Such agreement shall be maintained in the student’s

records. If an agreement is not reached informally, or if the request for amendment is denied,

the student shall be informed in writing of the denial and the right to a hearing on the matter.

Appeal for Examination or Course Grade

Hearing rights and Procedures 1. rights of appeal. A student whose request for amendment to education records

has not been settled or has been denied may file a request for a hearing within thirty

(30) days of the receipt of the letter of denial. The request shall be in writing and shall

be filed with the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs. The request shall

set forth the legal and factual basis for seeking correction of the student’s education

records. Upon receipt, the Vice-President shall appoint a disinterested University

official to serve as a hearing officer. The hearing officer shall schedule a hearing

within twenty-five (25) days of the date of receipt of the request for a hearing. The


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student shall be given written notice of the time, date and place of the hearing

allowing sufficient time for the student to prepare his or her appeal.

2. Hearing Procedures. The hearing shall be informal in nature but shall afford the

student a full and fair opportunity to present evidence relative to the issues raised

in the appeal. The student shall be entitled to be assisted or represented by an

individual of his or her choice and expense, including an attorney. The custodian

of records shall have the same rights as the student.

3. Hearing officer’s recommended order. The hearing officer shall issue a

recommended order within twenty-five (25) days of the close of the hearing. In

rendering a recommended order, the hearing officer shall consider only such

evidence as was offered at the hearing. The hearing officer shall include in the

recommended order a summary of the evidence presented and the reasons for his

or her recommendations. The original report shall be filed with the Vice-President

and a copy of the recommended order shall be sent to the student or the parents

of a dependent student and to the custodian of records. Upon receipt, the Vice-

President shall have ten (10) days in which to issue a final determination on the issues

raised in the appeal. If a determination is made that the information in the education

record does not require correction, then the student or a parent of a dependent

student shall have the right to place a statement in the record commenting that the

information has been challenged and the reason for the challenge.

HWCOM disseminates its policies and procedures regarding students’ access to, review

of, and challenges to student academic records to faculty and medical students through

the HWCOM Student Handbook 2010-2011, which can be downloaded from the HWCOM

website at http://medicine.fiu.edu/students.php?ss=cs&sub=hb.

For all required courses at HWCOM, students may review their performance and, if

necessary, appeal an examination or course grade. Students have the opportunity, and

are encouraged, to review their performance with their instructor on a regular basis

and whenever the student feels that this encounter is of importance. If a disagreement

regarding performance occurs, the student is encouraged to meet with the Associate

Dean for Curriculum and Medical Education to seek a resolution. If a resolution is not

achieved at this point (Informal Grievance Procedure), the student may seek a formal

hearing (Formal Grievance Procedure). This process is outlined in the Student Handbook

and on the HWCOM website at http://medicine.fiu.edu.

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Policies and RegulationsSpecific Application to the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine

The College’s Director of Admissions and Records is the custodian of all medical student

records and has the responsibility of maintaining the security of all such records. The

Executive Associate Dean and the Assistant Deans for Student Affairs have oversight

responsibility of medical student records security and storage. The Office of Student

Affairs maintains a confidential copy of records for each medical student enrolled in the

College. These medical student records will be maintained in locked, fire proof file cabinets

in the Office of Student Affairs. The College will retain all student records in accordance

with LCME, federal, and state requirements as well as FIU Board of Trustees regulations.

N. MEDICAL LIBRARy

Medical Library

The FIU Medical Library is located on the third floor of the Green Library (GL 380) on the

Modesto A. Maidique Campus. The Medical Library offers ample study spaces, computer

workstations, wireless connection and a wide variety of library services. The latter includes

copying, printing, interlibrary loans, reference service, and individual assistance in using

databases and other virtual resources. The Medical Library is a member of the National

Network of Libraries of Medicine.

library open Hours The Medical Library hours of operation mirror those of the Green Library during the academic

year. The hours of operation can be found at the website: http://library.fiu.edu. Hours are

subject to change; be sure to check the website for the latest schedule of operations.

resourcesMore than 4,000 journals and a large collection of books in biomedicine are available in

electronic format. A broad variety of databases provide up-to-date knowledge on medical

topics, and offer tools for drug reference, laboratory values, medical images, differential

diagnoses, and more.

Study Spaces In addition to study carrels and tables, two rooms are available for large and small group

collaboration. A projector, laptop and document camera may be checked out for use in

the rooms. A selection of chairs and reading tables complete the Medical Library as a

location for quiet study, collaborative learning, and relaxation.


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access to the medical libraryUse of the Medical Library as a study center is limited to students and faculty of the

Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. Panther I.D. cards must be swiped on the door’s

automated access system to enter the library. Visitors may use the Medical: Library upon

request to the Help Desk staff.

book Check-outBooks may be checked-out for 30 days with one renewal. The Medical Library is not a part of

the Green Library, so Medical Library collection materials must be checked out and returned

only in the Medical Library. Green Library materials must be checked-out and returned only

in the Green Library (second floor). A Panther I.D. card is needed to check out materials.

reserve materialsBooks and other materials that are ‘required’ or ‘recommended’ for courses are kept in

the Course Reserve cabinet in the library. They may be checked out for a two-hour period

upon request at the Help Desk in the Medical Library.

ComputerWireless access is available throughout the Medical Library and the Green Library. A

number of computer workstations are available for use in the Medical Library. Students

needing workstations for educational purposes have priority. All library computers are

rebooted at the end of the night, so documents should not be saved to the desk top or

hard drive. Items left on the desktop or hard drive will be removed every night. Documents

may be saved to personally owned disks or flash drives. The Medical Library follows the

University Library’s policy regarding internet use: http://library.fiu.edu.

Printing & ScanningA copier/printer/scanner is available in the Medical Library. Others are located throughout

the Green Library and in HLS II. Using it requires purchase of a copy card and incurs a

per-page charge. See a Medical Library Help Desk staff member for more information.

Personal belongingsPersonal belongings should never be left unattended. The Medical Library is not

responsible for lost or stolen items. Students should inquire at the Medical Library offices

(GL 323) for lost items.

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Policies and Regulationsbehavior Professional and respectful behavior and compliance with policies is expected at all times

in the Medical Library. Violators will be asked to leave. Medical students who abuse library

policies will be reported to the Office of Student Affairs.

medical library Help deskThe Help Desk in the Medical Library is staffed by Library Assistants who are knowledgeable

on how to access and use the library’s digital resources, and in trouble-shooting library

computer and printer problems. They are prepared to assist students on request.

reference/research assistance & tutorialsDedicated and experienced medical librarians are available weekdays to assist students

who have reference questions or need help with research. Librarians will also provide

hands-on database tutorials for individuals and small groups. Supplemental virtual

tutorials are available at the Medical Library home page. Librarians may be reached in

the Medical Library Offices on the third floor of the Green Library (GL 323) or by request

at the Help Desk in the Medical Library.

interlibrary loan ServiceStudents may obtain articles from journals that are not available online, as well as books that

are not available locally, by requesting an Interlibrary Loan on the Medical Library’s home page.

Problems, issues, concerns and complimentsThe Medical Library is an academic unit of the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine and

is not a unit of the University (Green) Library. Problems or issues regarding services in the

Medical Library should be brought to the attention the medical librarians in GL 323 or to

the Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs in the College.

medical library officesMedical Library administrative offices are located near the Medical Library in GL 323.

other services located near the green libraryStudent services located near the Medical Library on the third floor include the Student

Counseling and Wellness Center, a dedicated suite of three professional offices providing

a private entrance and confidential services to students for both personal counseling as

well as for student success, testing, and wellness services. The entrance to the Student

Counseling and Wellness Center is room 340B.


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university library (green library)The mission of the University Libraries is to provide the FIU community with a pleasant

environment conducive to study, research and the continuation of the educational process.

It is important that there be procedures and policies in place to protect the safety of library

users and preserve materials, equipment and the facilities. Dedicated areas of the libraries,

such as the Medical Library, have additional policies that apply to that area. The following

policies will apply in all public areas of the buildings

food and drinkMost snack food and drinks are permitted in the building including chips, nuts, and

cookies, can and bottled drinks.

• Pizza,fries,hamburgers,sub-sandwiches,andfoodswithstrongodorsarenot

permitted

• Food deliveries from vendors (pizzas, etc.) are prohibited andwill be turned

away at the entrance to the libraries

Patrons are requested to:• Usecontainersthatpreventsspills

• Depositcontainersinwastereceptacles

• Avoidbringingfoodwithstrongodorsintothebuilding

disruptionsDisruption to the study and research of patrons is prohibited.

Examples include but are not limited to:

• Creatingexcessivenoise

• Harassmentofothers

• Odorconstitutinganuisanceorhealthandsafetyconcern

• Behaviorthatdisturbsusersorstaffandinterfereswithuseofthefacility

mP3 Players, i-Pods, Cd Players, Cell Phones or other electronic equipmentThe use of any equipment that disrupts patrons is prohibited. Beepers and cellular phones

must be placed on vibrating mode or turned off. The use of cellular phones in public areas

of the library is prohibited. The use of video cameras requires the permission of the library

administration.

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Policies and Regulationsdestroying or damaging materials, equipment, Software or the facilityThe following are examples of actions that are prohibited (this is not a comprehensive list):

• Destruction,mutilationordefacementofanymaterials

• Damagingofhardwareorequipment

• Misuseoffurnitureorthefacility

• Intentionalintroductionofvirusesintoanysystem

• Tamperingwithsoftwareorchangingequipmentsettings

SmokingSmoking or other use of tobacco is prohibited within the facility.

animalsNo animals are allowed in the facilities other than those assisting persons with disabilities.

library Staff equipmentThe use of library staff equipment by patrons is prohibited.

Children and minorsIndividuals under the age of sixteen (16) must be attended by a parent or caregiver. Parents

or caregivers that bring children into the facility are responsible for monitoring their activities

and regulating their behavior. Disruption of patrons by children or minors is prohibited.

loitering, Soliciting and advertisingLoitering and soliciting for donations or accosting patrons or staff for any purpose that disrupts

their use of the facility is prohibited. Non-FIU advertising materials may not be displayed or

distributed without permission from the Library Administration. No materials may be affixed

to library interior or exterior walls without permission from the Library Administrative Office.

group tours/instructionAny persons wishing to bring groups of people into the library need to obtain prior

permission from the appropriate department. Persons who are unwilling to abide by this

policy will be asked to leave the facility. Refusal to do so may result in forced removal by

Public Safety and students could be liable for disciplinary action as established by FIU.

use of Video CamerasThe use of video cameras requires the permission of the library administration.


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Presence in library When library is ClosedPatrons may not remain in the library when the library is closed without prior permission

from the Library Administrative Office.

Persons who are unwilling to abide by university library policy will be asked

to leave the facility. those refusing will be subject to removal by Public Safety.

Students could be liable for disciplinary action as established by fiu.


Emergency Policy

When faced with any type of emergency or inclement weather, the health and safety of

students are the paramount concerns of the FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine.

As emergencies occur unexpectedly, the College in conjunction with the FIU Office of

Emergency Management (OEM) will ensure that all medical students will receive immediate

notification of all emergency alerts provided to FIU students.

By definition, an emergency at FIU can include all of the following:

• Fatal or critical accidents, injuries or illnesses occurring on University premises,

involving employees, students or visitors

• University-related transportationaccidents involvinghazardousmaterialsormajor

property damage

• Reportsofacute illnesses involvingpersonsoranimals,arising fromchemicalor

biological emissions or exposures on University premises

• Reportsofacute illnessesor injuriesarising from theconsumptionoruseofany

product purchased, sold or distributed by the University or on University premises

• Major spills or emission of hazardous materials inside buildings on University

premises to the extent that that the well-being of University community, the local

community and/or the environment may be affected

• Naturaldisasters,includingstorms,floods,hurricanes,ortornadoes

• Fires,explosions,bombthreatsandterroristthreatsonandoffcampus

• Violenceorriotingon,orincloseproximity,toUniversitypremises

• Extendedand/orwidespreadutility interruptionswithparticularemphasisonhow

they affect class schedules, research projects, University residential facilities, or the

ability of the University to continue normal operations

• Unauthorizedmajorworkstoppages,boycottsorthreatenedboycottsofUniversity

sponsored events.

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Policies and RegulationsIn addition to the above, any incident which has the potential for adverse publicity

concerning campus resources, and/or instruments of the University, may be considered

of sufficient gravity to activate the University’s Emergency plan.

During an emergency, there are several ways that students of the College will receive

alerts from the FIU Office of Emergency Management (OEM), part of the FIU Police

Department. First, emergency messages will be broadcast to emergency VoIP phones

located in most classrooms, offices, and buildings, as well as to FIU email accounts.

Audio messages and sirens will be broadcast via outdoor speakers. Students and staff

can receive emergency text messages to their personal cell phones by signing up for

Panther Alert, the emergency text messaging system designed to alert FIU students

and staff, as well as their friends and families. Panther Alert will provide automatic text

message notification to medical students’ cell phones during an emergency that affects

the University. All students are urged to visit the FIU homepage, http://fiu.edu for a link

and instructions on how to sign up for Panther Alert.

In addition, FIU’s Office of Emergency Management maintains a website

www.fiuoem.com, that will provide immediate status updates throughout emergency

situations. The OEM works to mitigate, plan and prepare for emergencies; educate the FIU

community about preparedness; coordinate emergency response and recovery efforts and

collect and disseminate critical information. Inherent in the OEM mission is the continued

and safe operation of the University. The Office of Emergency Management also oversees

the Emergency Management Group (EMG). The EMG is comprised of FIU employees

specifically assigned by their area Vice President or Dean, whose responsibilities are

critical to the University’s overall response and recovery. The EMG meets regularly and as

needed when an emergency is imminent (e.g., hurricane in the geographical quadrant with

impending hurricane watch) to discuss issues that will or may adversely affect operations

at the University. EMG members are trained in the National Incident Management System,

which enables FIU to interface with outside governmental agencies in the event of a

disaster. FIU has received the designation of “Disaster Resistant University (DRU)” and has

obtained the required qualifications to receive post-disaster FEMA funding.

fiu Classes and ClerkshipsAll classes in the basic and clinical sciences that are scheduled on any FIU campus

will follow the University’s temporary closure policy. Students who are assigned to

clinical clerkships that take place outside of the FIU campuses at the time of a local or

geographically widespread emergency should contact the Clinical Affiliate Dean of the

specific site for specific instructions pertaining to students’ instructional responsibilities. As

a general rule, clinical care responsibilities are expected to be fulfilled and students should


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follow the policies of the affiliate clinical site where they are currently rotating. Students on

clinical rotations are generally expected to report to their hospital assignments unless severe

weather conditions prohibit safe travel; each student should make a prudent judgment as

to the possibility of safe travel. The student should contact his/her resident (or whoever

is covering), the clerkship director (through voice mail if he/she is not available), and the

Office of Student Affairs. The OSA will provide informational messages regarding weather-

related attendance on voice mail, and these messages will be updated regularly. Voice mail

messages will be updated regularly and monitored for incoming messages left by students.

Throughout the emergency, students should tune in to local television and radio broadcasts

to remain informed regarding emergencies affecting any of the FIU campuses. This is

especially true regarding hurricanes, tropical storms, and other natural disasters. In addition,

students can contact the FIU HELP line at 305-348-HelP for the latest updates as well

as one of two online sources: the FIU home page www.fiu.edu or the home page for the

FIU Office of Emergency Management www.oem.fiu.edu. Additionally, students who sign

up for the Panther Alert emergency text service will receive periodic text message updates

directly to their cellular phone.

Additional information about the University’s Emergency response plans for students for

various types of emergency situations, from minor fires to extreme terrorism, can be found

on the Emergency Management website www.fiuoem.com or by calling the FIU Office of

Emergency Management.

General Safety Guidelines

There are inherent risks in any situation requiring contact with the public. Students must

be aware of the need for personal safety and act accordingly to minimize risks. The safety

and security of medical students are the first priority of the College.

Safety and security practices will be reviewed prior to community and clinical experiences.

Examples of such educational training programs include:

• universalprecautions

• needlestickprevention

• responsetoneedlestickorbodilyfluidexposure

• de-escalationtechniqueswhendealingwithangrypatient

• emergency procedures involving medical care (e.g., CPR), natural disasters,

terrorism, assault, illegal activities, and others.

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Policies and RegulationsWhile working in community settings, including hospitals, clinics, home visits, and other

off-campus venues, medical students should take precautions and use common sense

including but not limited to the following:

• Beawareofyoursurroundings.

• Don’tstandout(e.g.,wearingflashyorexpensivejewelry).

• Don’tcarryexcessiveamountsofmoney.

• Don’tleavevaluablesinplainsight.

• Travelinpairswheneverpossible.

• Keepcardoorslockedandwindowsclosed.

While working or studying on campus, it is important to note that the Department of

Public Safety has jurisdiction over the entire University, including the Herbert Wertheim

College of Medicine. Emergency phones have been installed at strategic locations

around the College and University which connect directly to the Department of Public

Safety. Students are urged to take notice of and become familiar with their locations.

As members of the FIU community, students can enhance their personal safety and help

keep the campus safe by taking precautions, including but not limited to, the following:

• Useprudentprecautions forpersonalsafety includingwalking inpairs in isolated

places or during the evening. Students should not hesitate to call Public Safety to

request a student escort or other security services at night.

• Keepclosewatchonyourpersonalproperty.Donotleavepersonalpropertysuch

as books, audio or video players, cell phones, PDA’s, laptops, purses, wallets,

jewelry, cameras, or other valuable objects unattended or out of your sight or in

classrooms, the library, restrooms, clinic, campus dining areas, the bookstore, your

vehicle, or in any public place.

• Reportallon-campustheftstotheDepartmentofPublicSafety.

− Non-emergency: 305-348-2626

• ReportanysuspiciouspersonsoractivitiestotheDepartmentofPublicSafety.

− Emergency, on-campus: 305-348-5911

While fulfilling the College’s educational objectives, students must also be aware of the need

for personal safety and act accordingly to minimize risks. The key message for students

is to be cautious and use common sense. Always listen to your “gut” feeling and follow

your instincts. If an environment or situation feels unsafe, stay calm and leave immediately.

Discuss with a faculty supervisor and/or call law enforcement.


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additional guidelines will be provided prior to the start of the household visits.

emergency contact information:• for all off-campus emergencies, call 911.

• for all on-campus emergencies and urgent scenarios involving safety,

call FIU Public Safety at 305-348-5911 for the Modesto A. Maidique Campus or

305-919-5911 for the Biscayne Bay Campus.

for non-urgent safety concerns or questions, contact: • UniversityPoliceNon-EmergencyUP:305-348-2626

• UniversityPoliceNon-EmergencyBBC:305-919-5559

Students may also contact the College’s Office of Student Affairs to address these

issues and seek guidance regarding non-urgent situations. Call 305-348-0644 monday

through friday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm and call 305-348-0696 for urgent matters

during nights and weekends.

Medical students who reside in the FIU residential housing should be familiar with

the safety policies established by the Department of Housing and Residential Life

(http://www.fiu.edu/life-at-fiu/housing).


Medical Student Employment

Medical students enrolled at the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine should not undertake

any type of employment outside of the College. The rigorous demands of the medical school

curricula in the basic sciences and the clinical clerkships require the full energy, attention and

time of the student. However, on rare occasions, individual exceptions may be made due

to documented financial hardship. Students who feel they need additional income and thus

absolutely must work are required to provide a written request to the Executive Associate

Dean of Student Affairs prior to starting work or during the first day of Orientation Week. The

medical student will also be required to provide verified documentation of financial burden to

the Office of Financial Aid and have a personal consultation with the Director of Financial Aid.

The final decision regarding employment will be made by the Executive Associate Dean

of Student Affairs or designee. These students will also be expected to attend classes

and clinical rotations like any other medical student and maintain a satisfactory academic

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Policies and Regulationsrecord throughout their medical school experience. Violations of this policy or a student’s

inability to maintain satisfactory academic performance will be subject to review by the

MSEPC.

Jury Duty

One of the Constitutional rights to all American citizens is the fundamental right to a trial

by jury. As an American citizen, it is your privilege and duty to serve as a juror when called

upon. Failure to comply with a jury summons can result in a large fine and/or contempt

of court. However, it is very reasonable and acceptable to request a postponement from

service on the dates indicated on your summons.

Students who receive notices regarding “jury duty” service should apply to postpone the

dates of service to a break or vacation period, to minimize the impact on courses and

clinical responsibilities. There is no state of Florida exemption of jury duty responsibilities

for students.

to apply for postponement. If the date of jury service is inconvenient, students must

write a short letter stating the reasons for postponement (i.e., mandatory attendance at

medical school classes and clinical responsibilities). In addition, students are required to

complete the “yes, no” questions on page 2 of the summons, including name, telephone

number and signature, and mail the letter and summons to the address located above

the juror badge. In this letter, you may request a specific Monday or Wednesday which

falls between 4 to 12 weeks from the date you are scheduled to serve, or a random future

date will be assigned to you. Requested dates are usually accommodated. Students must

provide the date of their next school break. All requests must be in writing as telephone

requests will not be accepted.

For more information about jury duty service, students should review the information at

the following URL’s:

• Miami-DadeCounty:http://www.jud11.flcourts.org/jury_service/default.htm

• BrowardCounty:http://www.clerk-17th-flcourts.org/ClerkWebsite/welcome2.aspx

• StateofFlorida:www.flcourts.organdfollowthelinktothewebsitefortheMiami-

Dade County Courts or the Broward County Clerk of the Courts.



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Media Requests for Student Interviews

The College follows the FIU Media Policy which can be found at http://policies.fiu.edu/.

Students should contact the College’s Office of Student Affairs (OSA) whenever

approached by members of the media, including radio, television, newspaper, magazine,

cable, internet, etc. Media personnel are required to have permission from the FIU Office of

Media Relations before approaching anyone on campus. The Deans at the OSA will make

the appropriate contact with the Office of Media Relations. All students, faculty, and staff

must be careful that the privacy of patients, colleagues, as well as the professional work

of researchers must be respected. Thoughtless, incomplete, or casual answers to some

media queries could have serious ethical or legal repercussions and could be a breach of

HIPAA or FERPA regulations.

Lost and FoundArticles that are found in classrooms or other public areas within the College should be

brought to the Office of Student Affairs (OSA). Students who have lost an item should first

contact the OSA. If the missing item is not there, students should contact the Department

of Public Safety at 305-348-2626.

Student Activities and FIU ServicesTHe HerberT WerTHeIm College oF medICIne STudenT Handbook 2010-2011


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Student Activities & FIU Services

A. STUDENT ACTIvITIES

New Student Orientation

Prior to matriculation, all selected first-year students are required to participate in a

week¬long New Student Orientation that takes place one week before the first day of

classes. During Orientation, students meet with the Dean, Executive Associate Deans,

Assistant Deans, Directors, as well as other key faculty and staff members. In addition,

medical students are provided with a wealth of important information, including but not

limited to the following:

− The process of matriculation into the FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine

(HWCOM)

− Important HWCOM and FIU policies and procedures

− Information about the various student services available at the HWCOM as well

as the University at large

− Information about the curriculum, attendance, academic policies, and grading

− Words of Wisdom from the Dean and the Executive Associate Deans

− Financial aid information

− Myer’s-Briggs personality assessment

− Assignment to a Panther Community

− Photo identification cards

− Medical Library

− Tours and orientation to several of the clinical affiliate sites

− Professionalism, Code of Conduct, dress code

− HIPAA

− Receipt and training on the laptop computer and the installed software programs

− Biosafety procedures, health policies

− Public safety, emergency procedures

− Student Organizations Fair

− Medicine and Society Reception

− Medical Student Council meet and greet – the medical student culture

− Social and teambuilding activities, including field trips and scavenger hunts

designed to promote camaraderie and team building

− Parent Breakfast

Attendance is required at all scheduled events during Orientation. The Orientation Week

concludes with the White Coat Ceremony when the medical student has the opportunity to

share the start of his/her new educational experience with family and friends. Student Activities and FIU Services


198

White Coat Ceremony

The White Coat Ceremony of the FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine is the concluding

and most signature event of Orientation Week for first year medical students. The White

Coat Ceremony serves as an important symbol for students about to embark on a medical

education that will transform them from a neophyte student into a physician with the learned

and privileged abilities to heal the infirmed and injured. In the presence of family, friends, and

faculty members, student-physicians are welcomed into the medical community and are

“cloaked” with their first white coats. The purpose of the ceremony, as initially conceived by

the Arnold P. Gold Foundation, is to clarify for students, prior to entrance into the medical

community, the physician’s responsibility to both take care of patients and also to care for

patients. In other words, doctors should care as well as cure.

The white coat symbolizes an entry into a world where one’s contributions have the potential

to have a lasting impact on the health and well-being of humanity. The ceremony reminds

our novice medical students of humility and never forgetting the many people, parents,

friends, professors, that have helped bring them to receive this white coat – a symbol of a

most noble profession of service to all humanity.

During the ceremony, all of the medical students will be adorned with their white coat featuring

the FIU seal and College’s logo and partake in a photo opportunity. Students will recite an

oath, pledging commitment to the profession and to lead lives of compassion, integrity, and

honor. The ceremony will feature a keynote speaker who provides inspiration and advice to

the aspiring physicians. Students receiving scholarships will have an opportunity to meet

their donor and partake in a photo opportunity. Following the formal ceremony, medical

students will join their families, friends, and faculty at a reception.

Panther Communities

The Panther Communities provide an educational and social atmosphere to promote

a sense of community and unity within the medical school environment. The Panther

Communities are designed to enable medical students to socialize and study with other

students at all stages of the medical school experience, as well as to network informally

with faculty, Office of Student Affairs staff, as well as physicians and other health care

professionals in the local community at other medical schools. The overall goal of such

student learning communities is to facilitate the physical, emotional, social, intellectual,

spiritual, and professional development of the medical students. Students who are

connected and supported by the community structure learn more efficiently and effectively

through shared peer-to-peer educational and social experiences. Developing long-lasting



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interpersonal relationships is invaluable for productive learning, creating a support network

during the medical school years, and for fostering future professional success. In addition,

enhanced student-staff interactions will allow for earlier and more effective interventions

that could lead students to obtain prophylactic and/or therapeutic academic and/or

counseling assistance earlier in the course of academic deficiency.

There are four (4) distinct Panther Communities: Anderson, Hippocrates, Pasteur and

Semmelweis, each named after notable physicians and medical scientists. Each Panther

Community consists of equal numbers of medical students from all classes. Each student

usually remains in the same assigned Panther Community throughout the four-year

medical school experience.

Each year, the students of each Panther Community elect a mayor to serve as its

administrative leader, as well as a vice mayor, secretary and treasurer. Each Panther

Community has a physician Faculty Director and a Panther Coordinator to facilitate its

administration as well as creating and scheduling various types of educational, mentoring,

and social programs and activities, to include professional shadowing, service learning,

volunteer work, tutoring, community service, fundraising activities, field trips, talent shows,

and academic and athletic competitions. The Panther Communities may develop their

own specific educational and social programs and activities or may collaborate with

members of any of the other communities.

During the four-year medical school experience, FIU medical students are expected to

develop the following skills necessary to become knowledgeable, empathic, culturally-

competent, and patient-centered physicians:

• leadership skills: Student leaders not only contribute to the quality of the medical

school environment but also gain valuable experience that will prepare them for

leadership roles as physicians. Each class elects officers who represent the class

in academic matters, plan activities, and organize social events. The Panther

Communities will foster the development of medical students’ leadership skills by

providing the following opportunities:

– The Mayor and Vice Mayor of each Community elected by peers who are

members of the respective Panther Community

– Participation as student members of various College standing committees,

including the Honor Council, the MSEPC, the Admissions Committee, the

Grievance Committee, and several committees important to the LCME

accreditation process



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– Founding officers of the medical student council, other medical student

organizations and student interest groups

– Participation in various service learning opportunities available at the University

and in the local community, working with community agencies such as AHEC,

the Miami-Dade Health Department, and other community health organizations

as well as departments within the University.

– Mentorship and tutoring of undergraduate pre-medical students.

• interpersonal and communication skills: Students will learn the importance

of developing strong interpersonal relationships as well as assertiveness, cultural

competency, and conflict resolution skills.

• academic skills: The Panther Communities provide opportunities for students to

share their best practices with their peers in terms of tutoring, mentorship, as well

as share their successful study, time management, and test-preparation skills.

• Professional skills: Professional skills development will be fostered in the Panther

Communities through the following activities, including but not limited to:

– Programs on professional communication skills

– Suturing techniques

– EKG reading workshops

– Sessions devoted to preparation for residency applications, resume writing, and

interview skills

– Guest speakers representing a variety of medical specialties and non¬medical

disciplines

– Volunteer programs enabling students to shadow physicians and allied health

practitioners in the community in both ambulatory and hospital settings

– Community involvement through established contacts affiliated with the Green

Family Foundation NeighborhoodHELP™ program, including public schools,

religious organizations, and local government.

– Collaboration with various allied health departments and groups at FIU to

participate in health fairs and health theme events and presentations, the Healthy

University Task Force initiatives, as well as participate with the College of Nursing

and Health Sciences and the Stempel School of Public Health and Social Work.



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– Student participation in annual fundraising events such as the Dance Marathon,

Relay for Life, March of Dimes, Race for the Cure, Cystic Fibrosis, American

Foundation for Suicide Prevention, the American Heart Association Walk, and

other altruistic endeavors.

• Social skills: The Panther Communities are truly a “home away from home” providing

medical students with a sense of belonging to a smaller group and providing social

support to help students with a variety of issues, including the following: personal

health care (taking care of the care-giver); stress management; personal strengths;

physical fitness; financial planning and debt management; parenting; relationships;

housing; cultural entertainment; friendly athletic, talent, and academic competitions;

and the establishment of new College traditions.

The Panther Communities provide students with informal opportunities to share

various aspects of their medical student experiences with their peers. There will

be opportunities for students to interact with College and guest faculty in a social

setting outside of the classroom, laboratory, and clinical setting as well as informal

opportunities for medical students to interact with students majoring in nursing, public

health, and other allied health disciplines where discussions regarding professionalism,

innovation, community service, leadership, and research could take place. In addition,

medical students have opportunities to collaborate with the medical students at the

University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and at Nova Southeastern University to

provide community service in a variety of different programs and activities, such as

health fairs. Finally, extracurricular programs will be developed as part of the Panther

Community experience to introduce students to physicians of various specialties and

ethnicities designed to enhance cultural competency and professionalism in ways that

complement learning in the classroom and clinical settings.

Panther Communities:

1. Panther Community anderSon

• namedafterphysicianElizabethG.Andersonwhowasthefirstfemalephysician

in Britain and the first female mayor in England.

• communitycolor:green

2. Panther Community HiPPoCrateS

• named after ancient Greek physician Hippocrates, regarded as the Western

Father of Medicine

• communitycolor:silver



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3. Panther Community PaSteur

• named after physician Louis Pasteur who confirmed the germ theory and is

known as the one of the three main founders of microbiology.

• communitycolor:red

4. Panther Community SemmelWeiS

• namedafterphysician IgnazSemmelweiswhodiscoveredthathandwashing

could reduce the spread of infections in obstetrical clinics.

• communitycolor:lightblue

Student organizationsStudents at the FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine can form groups based

on common beliefs and interests; they may express their views through these student

organizations as permitted by their constitution. Student organizations include the following:

• FIUchaptersofnationalmedicalstudentorganizations,suchasAmericanMedical

Student Association (AMSA), American Medical Women’s Association (AMWA),

American Medical Association (AMA), the Association of American Medical Colleges

(AAMC), Phi Delta Epsilon, and others.

• Student interest groups in Family Medicine, Surgery, OB-GYN, Pediatrics, Sports

Medicine, Radiology, Non-profit and Global Health, Emergency Medicine and others.

Students requesting to start a new medical student organization must apply to the Office

of Student Affairs by completing the appropriate registration form and submitting it to the

office of one of the Panther Community Coordinators. Prior to approval and inception,

student organizers of all proposed new medical student organizations must select a

volunteer faculty advisor approved by the Office of Student Affairs.

Organizations desiring to use the FIU HWCOM facilities for their activities and meetings

must be recognized by the institution. The Deans in the Office of Student Affairs have the

power to grant and to suspend recognition to student organizations.

Students must agree that all meetings must be conducted with due regard to the laws

governing defamation and comply with all policies and procedures at FIU and the HWCOM.

Libelous defamatory statements are not constitutionally protected and could subject a

student group and its members to legal action. Students’ statements are not constitutionally

protected, and could subject a student group or its members to legal action.

Students are also advised that unauthorized use of copyrighted material may violate

trademark or copyright laws. Students must ensure care that all publications are free



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of libelous statements and contain adequate citations to original sources. All major

student publications must be reviewed and approved by the Assistant Dean for

Student Affairs (Counseling and Communities) or designee.

Medical Student Organizations

medical Student CouncilAll medical students enrolled in the FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine automatically

become members of the medical student body. The Medical Student Council (MSC) is the

voice of the general medical student body and has the administrative authority to pass

resolutions on medical school policies and procedures by serving as the formal liaison

between the faculty, administration, and the medical students. Officers are elected by the

students in annual elections and consist of President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary,

and FIU Student Government Representative. In addition, the Presidents of the four Class

Councils comprise the MSC membership. The MSC will meet no less than bimonthly.

The major objective of the MSC is to enhance the formal education at the Florida International

University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine by providing leadership opportunities and

promoting professional development through conferences and community service projects,

providing unique and memorable extracurricular student opportunities to serve the University

and the local community. The Medical Student Council makes decisions pertaining to the

medical student budget and sponsors a variety of student surveys and student forums

throughout the year to ensure students’ voices are heard by faculty and administration.

Finally, the MSC has the mandate to holistically develop medical students professionally,

emotionally, socially, and spiritually throughout their medical school experience to balance

students’ future professional lives with a satisfying personal lifestyle.

american medical Student associationwww.amsa.org

The American Medical Student Association (AMSA) is a student-governed, national

organization committed to representing the concerns of physicians-in-training. With a

membership of more than 62,000 medical students, premedical students, interns, residents

and practicing physicians from across the country, AMSA continues its commitment to

improving medical training and the nation’s health and is. AMSA is committed to improving

the lives of medical students.

The AMSA-HWCOM chapter at FIU is the largest medical student organization at FIU. In

its first year, it hosted a suturing workshop and an ECG reading workshop for students

at FIU and participated in the Coastal Cleanup. It also held two significant fundraisers,



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allowing members of AMSA to travel to the AMSA regional and national conferences. The

FIU chapter was officially chartered in Anaheim in March 2010. The organization is part of

the Council for Student Organizations at FIU.

american medical association / florida medical association www.ama-assn.org / http://www.fmaonline.org

The American Medical Association (AMA)/ Florida Medical Association (FMA) Medical

Student Section at FIU represents medical students and seeks to improve medical

education, develop leadership and promote activism and community service to better

the health of Florida and the country. The AMA/FMA Medical Student Section at FIU is an

active chapter of the organization; its officers have worked with members and the Herbert

Wertheim College of Medicine to send students to the Florida Medical Association annual

conference in August 2010 and will be able to send 6 students to the Interim meeting of

the American Medical Association in San Diego, CA in November 2010. The chapter has

held several social events including the premiere of the FOX medical TV show House and

hosted a discussion of the State of Residencies in the state of Florida.

american medical Women’s association www.amwa-doc.org

The American Medical Women’s Association (AMWA) is an organization of women

physicians, medical students and other persons dedicated to serving as the voice for

women’s health and the advancement of women in medicine. The organization was

founded in 1915 by Dr. Bertha Van Hoosen in Chicago, at a time when women physicians

were an under-represented minority, representing 5-6% of all physicians in the U.S. As

the number of women in medicine increases, new problems and issues arise. AMWA

has been addressing these issues for 94 years. AMWA functions at the local, national,

and international level advocating for women in medicine and promoting educational and

clinical programs designed to improve women’s health. AMWA provides medical students

with opportunities to develop leadership skills, as well as foster advocacy, education,

mentoring, and the formation of strategic alliances with students at other medical schools

and health care professionals at various local, state, and national community organizations.

AMWA is an active organization on the FIU campus and is registered by the University’s

Council of Student Organizations. It has promoted community service projects such as

Race for the Cure and the Cystic Fibrosis 5K Walk as well as supporting personal wellness

through events such as the “Chill Out Session for Burnout” and “De-Stress with the Docs,”

an ongoing relaxation event featuring yoga and meditation sponsored by the Counseling

Wellness Center. Professional development is promoted through “Lunch and Learn”



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sessions with local female physicians who provide a realistic approach on how to balance life

with the several roles a woman must fulfill as well as participation at National Conferences.

AMWA also provides mentorship opportunities for women and has extensive physician

membership and will be working directly with National AMWA and FIU to promote Alcohol

Education by handing out materials in freshman orientation packets. The members participated

in several fundraising activities to raise funds to send several medical students to the AMWA

national conference. Students pay a one-time fee of $75 to become a national member.

emergency medicine interest groupwww.acep.org

The FIU HWCOM Emergency Medicine Interest Group (EMIG) serves to increase

awareness of career options within the specialty of emergency medicine, to facilitate

communication and interaction with health care professionals in this field, and to serve as

a liaison between the medical students at Florida International University and ACEP/EMRA

(American College of Emergency Physicians/Emergency Medicine Residents Association).

Its goal is to promote mentorship between FIU HWCOM physicians and students, organize

clinical workshops to supplement procedural learning outside of regular curriculum, and

serve as a resource to medical students in their EM residency application. Such events

include: Scientific Assembly Conference, Lunch and Learns related to Organ Donation,

Assessing the crying infant and emergency imaging workshops.

family medicine interest groupwww.aap.org

The Family Medicine Interest Group (FMIG) at FIU was the first student interest group

established at the HWCOM. FMIG is affiliated with the national and state American

Academy of Family Physicians. It seeks to educate and promote family medicine at FIU.

FMIG provides (1) a forum for students to learn about family medicine and gain early

exposure and interest in family medicine; (2) the dissemination of accurate information

about family medicine; (3) lifetime connections between students and family physician

mentors, and (4) opportunities for community service. FMIG also provides possibilities

for students to attend the state and national American Academy of Family Physicians

conferences.

The FMIG chapter at FIU has been very active in its first year, hosting a series of potluck

dinners with family physicians, inviting them to share their professional experience and

advice to students. The FMIG also held Halloween-grams and Valentine Grams to fundraise

for the organization and to help those in Haiti. The organization also lead a presentation to



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students attending a local high school entitled “Tar Wars”, promoting smoking prevention and

cessation. FMIG members have also participated in Florida Academy of Family Physicians

conferences.

internal medicine interest groupsgim.org

The Internal Medicine Interest Group (IMIG) is a group of medical students who meet

regularly to learn about internal medicine and to establish communication with faculty and

other students who share similar interests. The group offers students information about

internal medicine as a medical specialty and as a possible career while exposing students

to people in the field of internal medicine with interesting and successful careers who

can provide students with a sense of what it is like to be an internal medicine specialist

or subspecialist. IMIG also provides the students with opportunities to learn and network

together through their mutual interest in internal medicine.

military medicine interest groupThe Military Medicine Interest Group (MMIG) facilitates communication and interaction with

the branches of the military, health care professionals in this field, and the medical students

at Florida International University. The MMIG promotes mentorship between FIU COM

physicians and students, organizes workshops to increase the awareness of the student

body of the unique role and opportunities of a military physician, and provides a source of

advice, camaraderie, and support for those in the military.

neuroscience interest groupwww.nni.com.sg

The purpose of Neuroscience Interest Group (NSIG) is to provide an environment where

medical students can discuss and explore various topics in neurology and neurosurgery.

Faculty and community physicians working within the field of neuroscience will serve as

student mentors and assist students with career development and research opportunities.

Collaboration with other interest groups and student organizations will offer students

the opportunity to participate in community projects and gain interdisciplinary learning

experiences. The National Neuroscience Institute serves as the national resource for

students with an interest in the neurosciences.



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non-profit and global Health interest groupThe mission of the Nonprofit and Global Health Interest Group (NGHIP) is to learn how

to set up non-profit organizations and to focus on increasing awareness of global health

issues. The students participating in the group are reaching out to other parts of the FIU

community, such as the School of Law and the College of Public Health and Social Work,

to learn how to set up and operate a non-profit clinic. The students are also committed to

making a difference in the delivery of health care both locally and internationally.

ob-gYn interest groupwww.acog.org

The Obstetrics and Gynecology Interest Group (OGIG) provides interested medical

students with opportunities to learn and receive mentorship by physicians specializing

in obstetrics and gynecology as well as help facilitate an interest in women’s health care.

This exposure would include access to district and national meetings of the American

Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, participation in regional and local OB/GYN

societies, as well as access to clinical practice in the Miami Area.

Pediatrics interest groupwww.aap.org/

The Pediatrics Interest Group (PIG) promotes interest and opportunities to gain knowledge

of the specialty of Pediatrics. Its mission is to provide service to the pediatric community of

South Florida through education and support, and to foster the development of FIU HW

COM students into becoming excellent providers of care to children and their families. PIG

has participated in several community service projects such as Spring into Health, Cystic

Fibrosis 5K Walk and Walk a Mile with a Child. The Pediatric Interest Group is organized

through the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). All active members are encouraged to

become members of the AAP and attend the national conference held annually in October.

Membership is $16 and one can register online. Registration includes free conference

registration for members.

radiology interest groupwww.acr.org

The Radiology Interest Group (RIG) provides educational, research and professional

opportunities for students interested in residencies, fellowships and careers in

radiology. Members shadow residents in radiology at local hospitals and do research

on radiology topics.



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Sports medicine interest groupwww.acsm.org

The Sports Medicine Interest Group (SMIG) is an organization recognized by both the

HWCOM and FIU’s Council of Student Organizations. Its mission is to promote the wellness

of members and the local community by encouraging participation in physical activity as part

of a healthy lifestyle by sponsoring field days and participating at community health fairs. In

addition, the SMIG educates students and health care professionals about sports medicine

through continuing education programs, mentoring, and hands-on volunteer experiences.

SMIG has hosted potluck dinners with recognized nutritionists as guest speakers.

Surgery interest groupwww.facs.org

The mission of the Surgery Interest Group (SIG) is to allow students with an interest in

surgical specialties to gain experience as well as build professional connections within the

field of surgery. SIG periodically invites accomplished surgeons to serve as guest speakers

and student mentors. SIG establishes shadowing opportunities in operating rooms of the

major hospitals in the area as well as exposes students to surgical guest speakers. These

physicians will foster student interest in surgery, serve as potential mentors to students,

as well as provide students with opportunities for clinical experience. Members are

encouraged to register and become members of the American College of Surgeons.

Service Learning Opportunities

“Service-learning” is defined as a structured learning experience that combines community

service with preparation and reflection. Students engaged in service-learning provide

community service in response to community-identified concerns and learn about the

context in which the service is provided, the connection between their service and their

academic coursework, and their roles as citizens and professionals [Definition from Seifer

SD. “Service learning: Community-campus partnerships for health professions Education.”

Academic Medicine 1998;73(3):273-277].

Curricular Service learning opportunities: Consistent with HWCOM’s mission,

the curriculum incorporates structured service learning (through formal courses in

the curriculum) as a means to “continually improve the quality of healthcare available

in South Florida” while at the same time “training physicians to serve South Florida’s

diverse population through a patient-centered curriculum instilling cultural competence.”

HWCOM medical students are required to participate in service learning experiences

through the Green Family Foundation NeighborhoodHELP™, which is a major

component of the Medicine and Society strand of the curriculum. The Green Family



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Foundation NeighborhoodHELP™ program integrates community-oriented primary care

as a longitudinal experience throughout the four-year medical school curriculum, giving

students an opportunity to apply knowledge and skills they learn in the classroom to real-

world patient-care scenarios in underserved areas of the local community.

The Green Family Foundation NeighborhoodHELP™ core interprofessional team comprises

FIU medical, nursing, and social work students. Student teams interact with community

agencies, identifying needs and assets within the communities. Each is assigned to a

medically underserved household that the team visits monthly. Team members listen to

and work with members of their assigned household as they speak about their lives,

challenges, and healthcare experiences. Students administer standardized social and

health assessments to their assigned family members, which are adapted to household

needs (e.g., nutritional issues, pregnant women, elderly, children, etc. Student teams

incorporate FIU law, public health, education, and allied health science students into their

visits as needed. Family Medicine physicians, who are full-time HWCOM faculty, provide

administrative and clinical guidance and expertise during student visits to households

enrolled in the Green Family Foundation NeighborhoodHELP™ program. The primary

purpose of the household visits is for students to develop and implement a comprehensive

collaborative plan to improve the health of participating households and their communities

by addressing both health and social concerns.

Students document their service to the households and reflect on “the connection

between their service and their academic coursework, and their roles as citizens and

professionals” in their Green Family Foundation NeighborhoodHELP™ portfolio that

culminates in their Green Family Foundation Medicine and Society Capstone. Operational

support for the Green Family Foundation NeighborhoodHELP™ is facilitated through the

Panther Communities. Within two weeks after Orientation, each student is assigned to

one of four Panther Communities comprising members of each medical school cohort.

Students remain within this social-educational network throughout all four years of their

undergraduate medical training.

In addition to structured service learning in the Green Family Foundation

NeighborhoodHELP™ program, all first-year students are assigned to preceptorships at

community-based primary care sites to learn about the context in which primary care is

provided. In the fourth year, all students complete a required community medicine rotation

during which students are expected to provide service to the partner organizations

that provided their training venue. Students integrate the general competencies in a

community-based setting (Federally Qualified Health Center, Free Clinic, or Community

Mental Health Center).



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Voluntary service-learning activitiesIn support of Florida International University’s mission to promote public service, the

Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine encourages its medical students to participate

in voluntary extracurricular service at the local, regional, state, and national levels. The

Office of Student Affairs facilitates volunteer student involvement in activities that enhance

professional development, such as health educational programs, medical screenings,

and clinical care under the supervision of a licensed medical practitioner. Other non-

medical services (e.g., participation in fund-raising and public-awareness events) are also

encouraged. Panther Communities provide a forum through which HWCOM promotes,

coordinates, and tracks student participation in volunteer service and service learning

activities. Examples of voluntary service learning activities in which students participated

during the first academic year include:

• Assistingincreatingahealthyfoodcookbookforresidentsofanunderserved

community near downtown Miami;

• Collaborating with University of Miami medical students to provide medical

screenings and educational consultations as part of health fairs held at

community centers;

• Volunteeringtoteachbasichealthconceptstominorityelementarystudentsor

work with the Career Day events at local high schools and middle schools; and

• Partnering with Area Health Education Centers (AHEC) to provide medical

screenings and educational displays for the underserved residents of Sweetwater

(the community adjacent to the FIU Modesto A. Maidique campus) as part of the

student-led and student-organized “Spring into Health” event.

As students learn more clinical medicine during the second and third years of medical

school, their level of community service will naturally become more clinically focused and

further complement the educational and social work components of community service.

Through volunteer participation in these activities, students learn about the health and

population dynamics of local communities and develop an understanding of their roles

as citizens and professionals. Student participation in volunteer service is monitored

by the staff of the Panther Communities. Current students demonstrate a high rate of

participation in volunteer-service opportunities.

Funding for voluntary activities is allocated from the annual budget of the Office of

Student Affairs. Several student organizations have registered with the FIU Council of

Student Organizations (CSO) and, in return for participation in certain major campus-

wide activities and recordkeeping for the parent University, these medical student

organizations receive funds derived from student tuition collected from all students



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registered for classes at FIU. Currently, HWCOM chapters of the American Medical

Student Association (AMSA) and the American Medical Women’s Association (AMWA)

are members of the FIU CSO and receive dedicated funds. Students actively participate

in a variety of fundraising activities to generate additional funds for travel and registration

to attend local, regional, and national professional conferences of AMSA, AMWA, and

various medical organizations.

Students are informed about voluntary service-learning opportunities through these

mechanisms:

1. Introduction during orientation

2. Email messages directed to students and descriptions of the various student

organizations and interest groups posted on the HWCOM website

3. Announcements made during academic classes or during meetings of various

student organizations, such as the Medical Student Council or Panther Communities

4. Word-of-mouth and written information and invitations (email, text messages, social

network sites) from other students, faculty mentors, advisors, and other faculty and

staff members of the HWCOM. Printed versions are placed in the students’ personal

mailboxes or posted on the bulletin board located in the student lounge

5. Articles and marketing materials provided by the HWCOM newsletter, available in

print and online versions

6. Participation in various social networking sites (e.g., Facebook)

7. Collaboration with physicians at clinical affiliate sites (preceptorship clinics and

emergency departments)

8. Collaboration with medical students enrolled at local schools (University of Miami

Miller School of Medicine and Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic

Medicine)

Non-credit Clinical Activities

Students at the Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine

(HWCOM) who participate in outside activities in the community are acting as

representatives of the medical school and in doing so, MUST always behave in a

professional manner. It is expected that the student will dress appropriately and

professionally according to the Professional Dress Guidelines stated in the Student

Handbook.



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definition:Students attending the FIU HWCOM may participate in a variety of clinical experiences

as part of the formal curriculum as well as in the form of extracurricular activities. These

extracurricular experiences may include, but are not limited to, the following: community

health fairs, ambulatory free clinics, health screenings, health promotion and educational

programs, soup kitchens, retirement homes, children’s hospitals, etc. Students may not

participate in clinical volunteer activities without the direct supervision of a physician

faculty member. All extracurricular activities involving direct patient care must receive

prior approval from the Executive Associate Dean for Student Affairs or designee. Most

extra-curricular clinical volunteer activities should be sponsored by at least one of the

Panther Communities or student organizations.

Procedure for Student Participation:Each student who wishes to participate in such activities must complete a “Noncredit Clinical

Activity Approval” form and give to his/her Panther Community Coordinator to discuss

goals and competencies for the activity and to ensure all contractual agreements have

been completed. The student will also have to sign the “Release and Assumption of Risk

Agreement” form with his/her Panther Community Coordinator. These forms are available at

the HWCOM website (http://medicine.fiu.edu). All legal agreements and contracts need

to be sent to the Chief Legal Officer for the HWCOM at least three (3) weeks prior to the start

date of the extracurricular clinical activity. In the case of ongoing or year-long activities, one

request form can be completed for the entire period. The Panther Community Coordinator

will send the completed form to the Assistant Dean for Student Affairs (Counseling and

Communities) to review for completeness prior to sending it to the Executive Associate Dean

for Student Affairs or designee, for final signature approval.

If the activity is being done as a function of a Panther Community or student organization

or interest group, the mayor of the Panther Community or President of the student

organization must complete the “Noncredit Clinical Activity Approval” form for the group,

including a list of names of all students wishing to participate. The faculty advisor and the

physician supervisor/sponsor, if different, must sign this form giving advanced consent.

This form must then be given to the Assistant Dean for Student Affairs (Counseling and

Communities), or designee together with any supporting documents (proposed contracts,

etc.). These forms are available at the HWCOM website.



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faculty ParticipationA physician faculty member should be present during any community clinical event where

HWCOM students are participants. Should the official physician faculty advisor for the

organization not be available, he/she is responsible for obtaining a substitute. If a physician

supervisor/sponsor is not a HWCOM faculty member, he/she must first apply for courtesy

faculty status, a process that may take at least a month for the approval process of the

clinical appointment. A noncredit clinical volunteer activity with a non-faculty physician

supervisor/sponsor will not be approved. The HWCOM does not compensate for volunteer

faculty participating in extracurricular clinical activities.

liability Coverage:Students enrolled in the HWCOM are covered by the sovereign immunity policy of the

state of Florida only when participating in approved activities of the FIU HWCOM. Failure

to follow the established policies and procedures may likely result in the student having

no liability coverage for that noncredit clinical volunteer activity.

final approval:Once the Executive Associate Dean for Student Affairs or designee has completed and

signed the “Noncredit Clinical Activity Approval” form, he/she will give it to the Assistant

Dean for Student Affairs (Counseling and Communities) who will notify the appropriate

Panther Community Coordinator or Faculty Advisor of the approval status. A copy of the

form will be returned to the student and the original will be kept in the student’s file in the

Office of Student Affairs.

guidelines for non-credit activities:

1. Students must complete the “Noncredit Clinical Activity Approval” form as described

above to ensure coverage by the HWCOM liability insurance.

2. The supervising physician must be a HWCOM faculty member before the activity will

be approved.

3. Students are responsible for all costs associated with participation requirements

(parking and transportation, photo ID, drug screens, medical equipment, etc.).

4. If the above criteria are not met, the activity will not be approved and the student:

a. Must inform the physician that he/she is participating without sponsorship by

the HWCOM and is acting as an individual volunteer.

b. Must not wear anything that identifies him/her as an FIU HWCOM student.

c. Must inform the faculty member that he/she is not covered by the FIU HWCOM

liability insurance and document his/her understanding of the potential legal

implications.



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B. FIU STUDENT SERvICES

Preventive and Therapeutic Health Services

The University Health Services at FIU provides registered medical students with confidential,

professional, culturally sensitive, and primary medical care and health education for the

prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of routine illness and injuries in two convenient

ambulatory care centers located on both campuses. The Modesto A. Maidique Campus

University Health Services Complex (UHSC) is an approximately 20,000-square-feet

facility consisting of the following departments: The General Medical Clinic, Women’s

Health Services, the Wellness Center, pharmacy, immunization and laboratory services,

the Counseling and Psychological Services Center, and the Victim Advocacy Center.

All students are required to pay a student health fee, which entitles them to unlimited office

visits to see a licensed primary care physician, nurse practitioner, or registered nurse,

as well as access to receive immunizations, lab tests, and office procedures. This fee

is paid at the time of registration twice a year. Students requesting clinical care services

are requested to call to schedule an appointment whenever possible. Students without

appointments are first triaged by a Registered Nurse and then referred to see a nurse

practitioner or physician based on the type and severity of symptoms and/or urgency of

the medical complaint. There is a nominal charge for ancillary services, such as vaccines,

lab tests, medications, and office procedures, which is considerably lower than that

charged by local urgent care centers and emergency rooms. Appointments are required

to access the Wellness Center services and personal consultations. The following is an

outline of services offered to registered, health-fee paying students through the University

Health Services:

Clinical Care Services• GeneralMedicalClinic–primarycareservices,includingphysicalexaminationsand

screenings; diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illness and injuries

• Women’sHealthServices–preventionandtreatment–GYNservices,includingpap

and pelvic exams; colposcopy performed by a gynecologist

• Laboratory – CLIA-waived testing done on site. The UHS has entered into an

agreement with local community laboratories to provide services for a discount to

FIU students. Typical tests include blood, urine, cultures, STD checks, pregnancy,

mono, Strep, and others

• Office procedures: EKG, TB screenings, respiratory therapy, vision screening,

audiology, pap smears, suturing, allergy injections (with allergist Rx), and IV hydration



215

• Immunizations: MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), hepatitis A and B, influenza,

tetanus/diphtheria, varicella, meningitis, HPV, and others

Wellness Center • Services:one-on-oneconsultations;computerizedfitnessassessment;anonymous

HIV testing and counseling;

• Specialevents:healthscreenings;themeweeks;healthfairs

• AlternativeTherapies:massagetherapy,aromatherapy,acupuncture,chiropractic

fiu Pharmacy • Prescriptionmedications

• Over-the-counter products, including vitamin and herbal supplements, first aid

products, cold and flu products, aromatherapy, and more

SerViCeS not ProVided• Xraysandothersophisticateddiagnostictesting

• Specialty physician care (i.e., obstetrics, surgery, orthopedics, ophthalmology,

cardiology, gastroenterology, etc.) and dental care

• Emergencycareafterclinichours

• Overnightinfirmaryservices

If the above services are needed or requested, referrals will be made to several local

hospitals, pharmacies and physicians. The student must assume financial responsibility

for these services, as the Student Health Fee only covers services which are performed

at the campus clinics. To help offset these costs, the University strongly recommends

the purchase of health insurance. Brochures describing special student health insurance

plans are available at the University Health Services offices on both campuses.

for emergency Situations: On campus: Call Public Safety 24 hours a day at (305) 348-2626

Off campus: Call 911 or go to the nearest hospital er. A list of nearby hospitals

is located on the University Health Services website:

www.fiu.edu/~health.



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For urgent, not life-threatening, situations: Go to the University Health Services during

the hours of operation Mondays through Fridays. If the clinic is closed, students are

instructed by phone or website to go to one of several local urgent care centers located

within a five mile radius of the HWCOM.

Source: FIU University Health Services website www.fiu.edu/~health

Wellness

http://studenthealth.fiu.edu/wellness/index.html

The Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine and the University provide services to help medical

students become successful academically and professionally. All students are encouraged

to take care of themselves physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and spiritually. Physical

wellness is achieved by eating properly, exercising regularly, not smoking, avoiding excessive

alcohol use and the use of recreational substances, and adopting healthy sleep habits.

Visit the campus Recreation Center to exercise with free weights, machines, or aerobics

classes. Visit the University Health Services General Medical Clinic and Women’s Health

Clinic for minor illnesses, injuries, and regular preventive care (physical exams, screening

tests, and immunizations). It is suggested that you visit the Wellness Center, located in the

University Health Services Complex, for a variety of health educational programs, personal

consultations, computerized fitness testing, massage, chiropractic, and acupuncture, as

well as workshops on all wellness topics important for all young adults.

Emotional wellness can be maintained by becoming better organized, managing time

well, keeping in touch with family and friends, managing stress well, knowing yourself, and

developing meaningful personal relationships as well as more collegial relationships with

other students and faculty who could serve as tutors and mentors. All medical students are

encouraged to regularly visit the Student Counseling and Wellness Center in GL 340B for a

variety of programs. Keeping well spiritually is not only limited to your specific place of worship

but can be defined as keeping in touch with your own inner source of strength, often through

meditation, prayer, contemplation, and visualization. Finally, while it is recognized that time for

extracurricular activities will often be limited, medical students are encouraged to continue

their personal interests, hobbies, and personal relationships while in medical school.

victim Advocacy Center

http://vac.fiu.edu

The FIU Victim Advocacy Center provides free and confidential services to assist students,

faculty, staff, and university visitors who have experienced actual or threatened violence. The

Center is dedicated to providing advocacy and assisting students in overcoming traumatic



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events. Victim advocates provide comprehensive supportive services to aid in recovery from

assault, battery, relationship abuse (physical, verbal or emotional), sexual and/or attempted

sexual battery (acquaintance rape, date rape, stranger rape, molestation), stalking (repeated

following or harassment), hate and/or property crimes. Police reports are not required to

receive services. Clients are provided with information and options and are free to decide

which, if any, course of action they will pursue.

Services provided by the Victim advocacy Center include:

− 24 hour-a-day “Hotline” for support, information, referrals, and advocacy:

305-348-3000

− Supportive, confidential counseling and referral for individuals who have

been victimized

− Assistance with exploration of options and accessing community resources

− Accompaniment to court, meetings, hearings, and depositions involving the criminal

justice system or the FIU student conduct process

− Facilitate academic accommodations with the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine

Office of Student Affairs, as needed

− Speaking with professors, legal representatives, family members, employers,

landlords, and other campus or community service providers, upon request

− The Victim Advocacy Center also provides free educational and victimization

prevention workshops as well as volunteer opportunities for students

locations: − Modesto A. Maidique Campus – University Health Services Complex UHSC 210

− Biscayne Bay Campus by Appointment – Wolfe University Center

Contact information24-hour emergency and crisis line: (305) 348-3000

Phone: (305) 348-1215 (appointments, information).

Appointments: Mondays through Fridays; evening appointments are available.

FIU Police and Public Safety Departmenthttp://police.fiu.edu

The Florida International University Police Department and Public Safety (FIUPD) is located in

the Tower Building on the Modesto A. Maidique Campus and in the SO II Building at Biscayne

Bay Campus. The department provides a full range of public services to the neighboring



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community 24 hours a day, seven days a week on both campuses. Law enforcement

personnel are required to complete the minimum training as established by Florida State

Statute for certification. The State of Florida certifies all police officers of the university prior

to being hired. FIUPD patrols the Modesto A. Maidique and Biscayne Bay campuses on

foot and in police marked and unmarked vehicles. The department is comprised of several

sections, including:

• Administration

• Patrol

• Investigations

• Communications

The FIUPD has an excellent working relationship with other local law enforcement agencies.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), and other state and federal agencies also

assist the department when necessary, ensuring that professional police services are provided

to the university community. Communication and coordination with all new law enforcement

agencies is maintained on a 24-hour basis through the Florida Crime Information Center

(FCIC) and the National Crime Information Center (NCIC).

The safety and security of the University community is the department’s primary function;

students and members of the faculty and staff are encouraged to be involved in campus

crime prevention. In an ongoing effort to facilitate this process, law enforcement personnel

provide crime prevention programs each semester on various topics. Please take time to

explore the various programs that are available to the University community.

FIUPD is dedicated to the policing philosophy of Community-Oriented Policing (COP). The

Office of Community-Oriented Policing Services defines COP as a “policing philosophy

that promotes and supports organizational strategies to address the causes and reduce

the fear of crime and social disorder through problem-solving tactics and police-community

partnerships.” This type of policing focuses on the community which is an essential function of

the university’s mission statement.

CoP consists of two basic fundamentals:1. Community partnerships

2. Problem solving

FIU police officers strive to foster positive community contacts leading to effective

communication within the University and surrounding communities. This builds and

maintains a mutual trust that is vital in the development of community partnerships. With



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this broadened police perspective, FIU police officers are enhancing the quality of life for

the FIU community through a variety of approaches such as Bicycle Patrol, Operation Book

Stamp, Community Barbecues, Self-defense Workshops, Crime Prevention Seminars,

Officer Initiated Projects and various other activities and programs.

The FIU Police Department provides several services to the FIU community. Contained

in this section are descriptions of the various services. Most of the services indicated are

of no charge to the students, staff, faculty or any other member of the FIU community.

They include:

• FingerprintingServices

• SpecialEvents

• BicycleRegistration

• TravelPlan

• RapeAggressionDefenseProgram

• OperationBookStamp

Contact information and emergency numbers24 hours a day – 7 days a week (for emergencies)

Modesto A. Maidique Campus: (305) 348-5911

Biscayne Bay Campus: (305) 919-5911

modeSto a. maidiQue CamPuS

11200 S.W. 8th Street

Public Safety Tower

Miami, FL 33199

Tel: (305) 348-2623

Fax: (305) 348-1566

biSCaYne baY CamPuS

3000 N.E. 151st Street

Building SO II

North Miami, FL 33181

Tel: (305) 919-5559

Fax: (305) 919-5505

The Graham University Centerhttp://guc.fiu.edu

The Graham University Center (GC) is the student center located on the Modesto A.

Maidique Campus of FIU. The GC is essential to campus life and to the University’s mission

of providing a pleasant and educational environment for camaraderie and enhancement of

the University’s community spirit. The experiences afforded to students strive to expand

knowledge, develop skills, and clarify values for individual and community growth.


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As the “living room” of the campus, the Graham Center offers unique facilities, conveniences,

services and amenities needed in the daily life of the University community. It is the focal point

for formal and informal gatherings; the stage for presenting social, educational, cultural and

recreational programs; and a setting for quiet reading and lively conversation with friends.

Students enjoy the benefits of leadership and practical business experiences by

participating in governing bodies, student organizations, and employment opportunities.

The Graham University Center houses retail operations that generate valuable financial

returns to support a wide-range of University programs.

graham Center ServicesThe Graham Center provides the following services:

1. The GC Computer Lab has more than 70 personal computers, networked laser

printers, a color laser printer, and scanners. The Computer Lab provides expanded

night and weekend hours and a staff of assistants.

2. Panther CARD: Students and Faculty are able to obtain PantherCARDs, passport

pictures, lamination, and other photo ID cards. Currently enrolled FIU students

will need a PantherCARD. Your PantherCARD allows you access to the Libraries,

Recreation Centers, University Health Services, Multicultural Programs and Services,

Student Government and homecoming elections, University and theme events, and

Instructional Media Centers, Career Services, athletic events, computer labs, Financial

Aid Book Advances and Campus Life lectures, comedy shows, concerts, movies,

dances, and more. You are also able to use your PantherCARD as a debit card

throughout the FIU campus.

3. The Porter Davis Game Room is a place to relax, meet friends, and enjoy a variety

of indoor games including billiards, table tennis, board games and video games. The

Game Room programs and activities provide students with opportunities for leisure and

competitive tournaments. The Game Room hosts campus tournaments where winners

qualify to represent FIU at the Association of College Unions International (ACU-I)

Regional Tournaments. The Game Room also works with the recreational clubs to host

clinics for students to improve their chances in regional and national competitions. The

Game Room has sponsored teams to represent FIU in regional and national in-door

recreational competitions with the Association of College Unions International (ACU-I)

and has provided first place winners in chess, billiards and table tennis.

4. The Information Desk: The information desk is the place to go if you need help,

directions, general information, or if you have lost something.



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5. The Graham Center Main Office provides convenient notary services to the FIU

community.

6. The Graham Center Business Office makes reservations to rent various types of

spaces for student organizations and outside agencies, for private or public meetings,

lectures, meal functions, parties, weddings, and other types of celebrations

graham Center business ServicesThe Graham Center is a short walking distance from the major Herbert Wertheim College of

Medicine locations and the home to many popular services. Since hours of operation vary

and are subject to change during different times of the year, it is best to check the website for

specific hours of operation as well as more detailed descriptions of services. Some services

are open evenings and during the weekends.

• BarnesandNobleatFIU:TheFIUBookstore

http://obs.fiu.edu/services_book.html

The FIU Bookstore, operated by Barnes & Noble Booksellers, has been serving

the FIU campuses for more than twenty years. The bookstore sells all required and

recommended textbooks for all classes, both new and used copies when available.

The price for used textbooks is approximately 25% less than new textbook prices. For

convenience, medical students can order textbooks online at fiu.bncollege.com and

pick them up in the store or have then shipped to the home. The bookstore will also

buy textbooks back for cash during finals week. In addition to materials for classes,

the FIU Bookstore also sells office and computer supplies, maintains a large inventory

of popular fiction and nonfiction books and audio, and possesses the largest inventory

of FIU and FIU HWCOM logo clothing and other merchandise. The Café located

on the second floor provides coffee and quick snacks. The Bookstore carries more

than 30,000 titles in the general reading sections, including bestsellers, new releases,

bargain books, and campus authors along with many other areas of general reading

books. The Bookstore will place special orders for books not in stock.

• ToshibaCopyCenter

http://obs.fiu.edu/services_cop.html

The Toshiba Copy Center at FIU provides the following business services to students,

faculty and staff: copying, printing and scanning from the desktop to the Copy

Center; on site creative copy and printing services; laminating; shredding; signage;

posters; banners; off-line finishing and binding; and the sale of retail products such

as small electronics, computer peripherals, and more.


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• DiningandCateringServices:PantherDining

http://www.campusdish.com

Panther Dining is the food service provider for FIU. The administrative and culinary

staff is dedicated to providing superior customer service and a variety of quality foods.

Panther Dining provides of national brand restaurants including Subway, Einstein

Bagels, Starbucks, Pollo Tropical, Burger King, Bustelo Café, Jamba Juice, Chili’s

Too, and more. In addition, the Fresh Food Company provides cafeteria style all you

can eat options featuring daily menu specials, soups, salad bar, and healthy food

selections low in fat and calories, and high in fiber. Other food options on campus

include the Breezeway convenience store in the Housing Quad, Camille’s Sidewalk

Café at the Recreation Center, the POD in Academic Health Complex 3 (College of

Nursing and Health Sciences building), or various coffee shops located in the Green

Library and the FIU Bookstore, that feature a variety of snacks, soups, salads, ready-

made sandwiches, pizza, vegetables, entrees and desserts as well as made-to-order

delicatessen sandwiches, ethnic dishes, low-fat options, and specialty coffees.

Panther Catering will help cater a special on-campus function with a qualified staff

that is dedicated to providing excellent food and service to make the event truly

successfulandmemorable.Gotohttp://obs.fiu.edu/services_cat.htmltoreview

the catering options.

• Santi’sHairandNailSalon

http://www.wavesspafiu.com/santisalon

Santi’s Hair and Nail Salon provides the following services: hair cut, hair coloring,

permanent waving, hair removal, waxing, and hand and foot care. The professional

team of talented stylists take care of women and men and provide the most up-to-

date services and products. The staff is dedicated to meet the needs of busy college

students and staff. Santi’s provides gift certificates for any event such as birthdays,

anniversaries, holidays, bridal showers, graduation, administrative assistant day, etc.

• WavesSpa

http://www.wavesspafiu.com

The licensed staff at Waves Spa provides professional care, specializing in the Rolf Method

of Structural Integration, Brennan Healing, Massage and Microdermabrasion. Students

often feel overwhelmed and show signs of intense stress, anxiety, feeling trapped, difficulty

sleeping, withdrawing and being overwhelmed. Research shows that massage can

provide improvement with these conditions. (See the website for a full list of benefits of

massage). Waves Spa has been voted “Best Massage in Miami” in 2007 & 2008 and



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“Best Facials in Miami” in 2008 by City Search voters. One can schedule appointments

and purchase gift certificates online 24 hours a day.

• UniversityCreditUnion

http://www.ucumiami.org

The University Credit Union operates as a member owned, not-for-profit, cooperative

financial institution that is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors and a volunteer

Supervisory Committee. Credit Unions are the only democratically controlled

financial institutions in the United States. The University Credit Union provides a

comprehensive range of financial services at low cost with favorable rates. Some of

the financial services provided include no-fee checking, savings, money market and

CD accounts, as well as a notary. The University Credit Union has two FIU locations:

at the Modesto A. Maidique Campus on the first floor of the Graham Center and in

the Wolfe University Center at the Biscayne Bay Campus. The University Credit Union

is a full-banking center having served FIU students, faculty and staff since 1982.

FIU Athletics

http://fiusports.com

Florida International University’s Department of Athletics adheres to the belief that

intercollegiate athletics are an integral part of the educational framework of the institution.

The program exists to support and compliment the mission and goals of the University.

The mission of the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics at FIU is to initiate, stimulate

and continually improve the athletic and recreation programs for students by promoting

academic excellence and educational leadership, assuring gender equity and cultivating

diversity, and fostering and promoting personal integrity among its participants.

FIU participates in Division I of the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) in the

following sports: football, basketball (men and women), volleyball (women), soccer (men

and women), baseball (men), softball (women), tennis (women), golf (women), swimming

and diving (women), cross country / track and field (men and women). FIU is a member of

the Sun Belt Conference in all sports except men’s soccer (Conference USA). The Athletic

Department also supports the Golden Dazzlers dance team.

All FIU students, including medical students, pay an athletic fee as part of registration,

which entitles them to attend all athletic events free of charge. To learn more about the

various men’s and women’s athletic teams, view game schedules, purchase guest tickets,

view the online store, as well receive game day information, visit www.fiusports.com

Wear your blue and gold and show your Panther spirit!


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In addition, you can cheer for your favorite FIU teams along with the nationally recognized

FIU cheerleaders as well as the new marching band, funded by student fees. Go Blue and

Gold! Go FIU Golden Panthers!

Recreation Serviceshttp://www2.fiu.edu/~camprec

The Recreation Center is located west of the University Health Services Complex, east of

the U.S. Century Bank Arena, and south of the Law School. It’s convenient to those living

in the residence halls and is easy walking distance from almost any or office or classroom

on campus. Parking is available in the Panther Parking Garage (located north of the U.S.

Century Bank Arena), and in Lot #8, just south of the building.

the recreation Center features:

• Atwo-courtgymforintramural&recreationalbasketball,volleyballandbadminton,

• 12,500squarefeetoffitnessspaceincludingfreeweights,resistancemachinesand

cardio equipment

• 2multipurposegroupfitnessrooms(forexpandedfitnessclasses)

• Largemen’sandwomen’slockerrooms(eachwithover200dayandsemesterlockers)

• Camille’s Sidewalk Café, featuring wraps, salads, sandwiches, smoothies and

gourmet coffees

Services include:

• Adiverse“PantherFIT”groupfitnessclassscheduleofmorethan30fitnessclasses

each week

• RecreationCenterOrientationsofferedfreedailyonawalk-inbasis,

• BodyCompositionAssessmentsusingthelatestinbioimpedancetechnology.

• Exercisechartsfortrackingyourworkoutroutineandimprovements

• Friendly, supportive staff with a thorough knowledge of all equipment, always

available and willing to help

• PersonalTrainingwithnationallycertifiedtrainersatoneofthelowestratesinthearea

• TheProShopfortowelandlaundryservice,equipmentcheckout,andretailsalesof

energy drinks/bars, fitness accessories and locker room sundries

• Cardiovascularequipmentreservations24hoursinadvance.

• TheFIUDebitCardisacceptedforProShoppurchasesandgroupfitnessclassfees



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Housing and Residential Life

www.housing.fiu.edu

live. learn. excel.University Housing has designated several apartment-style efficiency, one-bedroom, and

two bedroom units exclusively for medical students and other professional students,

including law and business majors. These units typically consist of single or double suite-

style apartments and some have living areas and kitchenettes. Units reserved for medical

students are primarily located in the University Park Apartments (buildings G, H, & J) on

the Modesto Maidique campus.

Resident students benefit from convenient access to the Herbert Wertheim College of

Medicine, the Medical Library, and on-campus research and clinical facilities. In addition,

resident students have convenient access to a vast array of non-academic resources,

including the main campus library, computer labs, recreation center, student health clinic,

dining facilities, convenience store, dry cleaning, spa, florist, copy center, and the FIU

bookstore. Also, each residential student enjoys unlimited Internet access directly from his

or her room. In addition, students will have an opportunity to live in a diverse community

designed to support personal growth and form life-long friendships.

Rent includes utilities, high-speed internet, cable televisions, full kitchen, laundry facilities,

a multipurpose lounge, computer lab, basketball court, picnic gazebo, and access to an

on-campus swimming pool. For more information, please visit the FIU Housing website

at housing.fiu.edu or call 305-348-4190 or send an email to: [email protected].

off-campus Housing. The FIU Office of Orientation Commuter Student Services provides

a website with listings of a variety of different types of living accommodations located near

the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine that are currently available for rent or sale:

http://classifieds.fiu.edu. Contact the Office at 305-348-6414 for more information on

off-campus housing.

Parking and Transportation

http://parking.fiu.edu

Students and their guests who park a vehicle on any of the University’s campuses must register

it with the FIU Department of Parking & Transportation. They must obtain a decal, hangtag, or

permit and display it as prescribed by the University’s Parking Rules and Regulations. Decals

must be displayed and affixed to the lower left corner of the outside rear window or bumper.

Students pay a transportation access fee in their tuition, which entitles them to a decal each

academic year at no additional charge. Decals may be obtained by accessing the parking


226

website parking.fiu.edu, entering your Panther ID, and verifying your vehicle registration

information. The University assumes no liability for vehicles parked or operated on University

property. The issuance of a decal or permit does not guarantee a place to park.

All students residing in University Housing complexes must also obtain a current housing

vehicle sicker in addition to the current FIU parking decal. This sticker allows the vehicle to

be parked in the parking lots immediately adjacent to the student housing buildings. The

housing sticker should be affixed adjacent to the current student decal or on the bottom

of the hangtag. Students having guests visit should pick up a housing permit from the

Housing Office. Students who do not live on campus are not permitted to park in the lots

designated for student housing residents. Never park on the grass or in spaces reserved

for other types of decals (Faculty/staff, Administrative, Executive).

A duplicate hangtag may be purchased for additionally owned vehicles. This hangtag is

valid only for the vehicle under which it is registered. Hangtags are available to persons

who have been issued an original decal for the semester or year. Any person who has a

current decal and needs to use temporary transportation must obtain a temporary permit.

Students should contact the Department of Parking and Transportation should they need

a temporary decal should their registered vehicle requires service or they have a rental car.

Medical students are encouraged to review the University’s Parking Rules & Regulations.

Students will be provided a copy of the University’s Rules & Regulations when their decal

is mailed. The regulations are also posted on the Parking and Transportation website at

parking.fiu.edu. It is the responsibility of each student to become familiar and comply

with the University’s Parking & Transportation Rules & Regulations, including understand

the process for appealing parking and traffic citations. All questions may be answered by

reviewing the website or calling Parking & Transportation at (305) 348-3615.

In summary, some of the most common parking violations include:

• parkingintheExecutive,Administrative,orFaculty/Staffspaces,

• parkingontheroadway,

• parkingonthegrass,

• parkinginHousinglotswithoutaHousingpermit,and

• parkinginloadingzoneswithoutaloadingpermit.

• parkinginspaceswithexpiredmeters

Everyone who parks at metered spaces must pay the meter even if they have a decal.

Accumulation of these violations will result in the vehicle being booted or towed and a

financial hold being placed on the student’s record.



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the department of Parking & transportation provides the following services:

• FIU website, parking.fiu.edu, providing 24-hour-a-day access where one can

order a parking decal, pay citations and appeal citations.

• PublicServiceAide(PSA)Program,providingtransportationthroughoutthecampus

from 7 P.M. to 1 A.M.; call (305) 348-6173 to arrange transportation.

• GreenRide Carpool Program – fiu.greenride.com, a free carpool database.

Enrollment allows drivers to park closer to major buildings while helping save the

environment, gas, time, and money.

• Golden Panther Express Shuttle (GPE), providing low cost and convenient

transportation between the Modesto A. Maidique Campus (MMC) and the BBC.

Tickets are sold at the Modesto A. Maidique Campus in offices located in several

of the parking garages and at Graham Center office; they are also sold at the BBC

campus in the Wolfe University Center (WUC) and the information desk.

• CATSShuttleprovidingfreetransportationbetweenvarioussitesontheMMCand

between MMC and the Engineering campus.

The Patricia and Phillip Frost Art Museum at FIUhttp://thefrost.fiu.edu

The Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum, located on the Modesto A. Maidique Campus, has

gained a respected reputation for its innovative exhibitions, outstanding lecture series and

educational outreach programs for South Florida’s diverse audiences. Through generous

support from private donations as well as state and local government agencies, the Frost

Art Museum is able to offer free admission to all exhibitions and public events. In 1999, the

Museum received accreditation from the American Associations of Museums (AAM) and

in 2001 became an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution. In 2008, the Museum moved to

its new 46,000 sq. ft. state-of-the art facility.

Student and faculty exhibitions, an important component of the Museum’s academic

function, present the work of artists who have achieved significant state and national

recognition, including NEA, MacArthur, Guggenheim and Florida Visual Artist Fellowships.

The Betty Laird Perry Emerging Artist Collection was established with work acquired

through the Betty Laird Perry Purchase Award which is granted to selected BFA and MFA

students graduating from the FIU programs in visual arts.

The Frost Art Museum complements its exhibitions with a wide range of regionally unique

and nationally recognized educational programs. The Steven and Dorothea Green Critics’

Lecture Series and the Latin American & Caribbean Art Lecture Series directly connect


228

South Florida audiences with important artists, critics and art historians living today.

The Wednesday After-Hours programming is designed to complement the Museum’s

exhibitions and give visitors the chance to engage with the contemporary and confront

the controversial via gallery talks, films, live music and performance art.

Admission is free. Visit the website at: http://thefrost.fiu.edu/museum.htm for updated

information regarding specific exhibits, special events, and updated hours of operation.

The Wolfsonian-Florida International Universitywww.wolfsonian.org

The Wolfsonian-FIU is a scenic museum of modern art and design that is located in the

heart of historic Miami Beach, within easy walking distance of the world-famous Art Deco

hotels and South Beach. The museum has fascinating collections from the modern era

(1885-1945) that focus on how art and design shape and reflect the human experience. The

museum further engages the visitor by complementing its collection with thought-provoking

discussions of the context and connection among its objects. Visitors are encouraged to

explore the culture of the past to better understand its relevance to the present.

The Wolfsonian collection contains artifacts primarily of North American and European

origin, dating from 1885–1945. It comprises a variety of media: furniture; industrial-design

objects; glass, ceramics, and metalwork; rare books; periodicals; ephemera; works on

paper; including architectural drawings, posters, and fine art prints; paintings; textiles;

and medals. The majority of the collections and artwork come from the United States,

Great Britain, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Russia/Soviet Union. The objects are

interpreted to explore key issues in design history - the way design has both altered and

been altered by cultural change, industrial innovation, and strategies of persuasion.

The Wolfsonian-FIU museum sponsors innovative programs designed to enhance

students’ observational and diagnostic skills with their patients, as well as their creative

ability to think “outside of the box” and consider all possibilities when caring for patients.

The Wolfsonian-FIU commitment to the HWCOM is evidenced through medical student

training in their ongoing grant-funded “Visual Thinking Strategies” series of workshops as

well as invitation to special exhibits relating to health and medicine.

Wolfsonian location:1001 Washington Avenue

Miami Beach, FL 33139 (At the corner of 10th Street and Washington Avenue)

Tel:305.531.1001•Fax:305531.2133

Website: www.wolfsonian.org



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FIU–Biscayne Bay Campus

The Biscayne Bay Campus of FIU, located in North Miami, is home to nationally and

internationally recognized academic programs. The School of Hospitality and Tourism

Management is responsible for the famed South Beach Wine & Food Festival held annually on

Miami Beach. Anticipating the future of hospitality management, in 2006 the School opened

a teaching center at the Tianjin University of Commerce in Tianjin, China. The School of

Journalism and Mass Communication recently hosted the first ever New York Times Hispanic

Student Journalism Institute and is the only school in the nation to offer a bilingual master’s

program for students who want access to both the Spanish and English media markets.

FIU offers many degrees in the College of Arts & Sciences, some of which are based on

the Biscayne Bay Campus, including a stellar program in creative writing. The marine

sciences program is located in a new state-of-the-art facility that is fully equipped with a

marine water system that pumps water directly from the Bay into student labs.

BBC has a student body of nearly 8,000 and celebrates the international and multicultural

heritage of its students and faculty. Beyond the classroom, BBC offers a wide array of

activities for students including many student organizations, recreational activities such as

kayaking on the Bay, and a variety of academic lectures and events. Community members

are encouraged to visit this campus, attend events, and take advantage of the many

educational and recreational activities open to the public.

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute holds classes every semester for interested adults,

and FIU’s Office of Continuing and Professional Studies offers training programs for career

advancement. The Kovens Conference Center hosts meetings, conferences and social

events, and features a terrace overlooking Biscayne Bay.

The Biscayne Bay Campus is located approximately 3.5 miles (a 12-15 minute commute)

from Jackson North Medical Center in North Miami Beach. The BBC is approximately 30

miles northeast of the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine on the Modesto A. Maidique

Campus, a 45-50 minute commute during non-rush hour traffic.

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AppendixTHe HerberT WerTHeIm College oF medICIne STudenT Handbook 2010-2011

Appendix ATHe FIu HerberT WerTHeIm College oF medICIne

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ugh

a pa

tient

-cen

tere

d cu

rric

ulum

inst

illin

g cu

ltura

l com

pete

nce,

Prov

idin

g Fl

orid

a st

uden

ts g

reat

er a

cces

s to

med

ical

edu

catio

n, a

nd

Fo

ster

ing

rese

arch

to d

iscov

er a

nd a

dvan

ce m

edic

ally

rele

vant

kno

wle

dge

To b

e So

uth

Flor

ida'

s lea

der i

n pr

ovid

ing

clin

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ly co

mpe

tent

phy

sicia

ns to

the

loca

l com

mun

ities

, and

in d

iscov

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g in

nova

tions

in th

e sc

ienc

e an

d de

liver

y of

med

ical

care

Inte

grity

Sc

hola

rshi

p Co

mpe

tenc

e N

urtu

ring

Com

pass

ion

Leve

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the

exis

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e of

our

med

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scho

ol to

en

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e th

e ov

eral

l qu

ality

of a

nd a

cces

s to

heal

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re in

Sou

th

Flor

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Grad

uate

cultu

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co

mpe

tent

med

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st

uden

ts w

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ill b

e ab

le to

pro

vide

ex

empl

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care

to th

e di

vers

e po

pula

tions

in

Flor

ida

and

the

natio

n.

Util

ize th

e pr

esen

ce o

f m

edic

al st

uden

ts

wor

king

in

inte

rdis

cipl

inar

y te

ams

of h

ealth

car

e pr

ofes

sion

als t

o im

prov

e he

alth

aw

aren

ess a

nd

heal

thca

re in

dice

s in

the

com

mun

ities

serv

ed.

Assi

st a

rea

hosp

itals

in

deve

lopi

ng re

side

ncy

posi

tions

to a

mel

iora

te

Sout

h Fl

orid

a’s c

urre

nt

and

antic

ipat

ed

phys

icia

n sh

orta

ges.

Initi

ate

and

purs

ue

inte

rnat

iona

l res

earc

h an

d ac

adem

ic

colla

bora

tion

that

will

co

ntrib

ute

to th

e ec

onom

ic d

evel

opm

ent

of th

e co

mm

unity

, re

gion

, sta

te, a

nd

natio

n.

Mission Vision Values Goals

Enga

ge th

e lo

cal

com

mun

ity th

roug

h m

utua

lly b

enef

icia

l ou

trea

ch a

nd

part

ners

hip

prog

ram

s.

2010-2011

Appendix BTHe FIu HerberT WerTHeIm College oF medICIne

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233

Biscayne Bay Campus3000 N.E. 151st StreetNorth Miami, Florida 33181p. 305.348.2000www.�u.edu KEY Buildings Sidewalks Roadways Grassy Areas Water

Produced by mapformation.com. Last updated in July 2009.

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Appendix CTHe FIu HerberT WerTHeIm College oF medICIne

234

To view the latest Academic Calendar for each period, go to medicine.fiu.edu and click

on the Students tab. For convenience, an outline of the Academic Calendar is provided

below and is subject to change with notice.

ACADEMIC CALENDAR — FIRST-yEAR STUDENTS

Subject to Change

orientation Week august 2 – august 6, 2010

White Coat Ceremony august 6, 2010

PERIOD 1 (FOUNDATIONS) August 9, 2010 – March 18, 2011

Period 1 - educational block 1 august 9 – october 4, 2010

− Genes, Molecules and Cells

− Cm: Clinical Skills I

− Pd: Introduction to Measurement & Quantitative Methods

− Pd: Professional Behavior I

− m&S: Ethical Foundations of Medicine

Labor Day Holiday, University Closed - September 6, 2010

Period 1- educational block 2 october 5 – december 6, 2010

− Human Structure and Function

− Cm: Clinical Skills I (continued)

− Pd: Foundations of Clinical Epidemiology & Research

− Pd: Professional Behavior I (continued)

− m&S: Addressing the Socio-Economic & Cultural Aspects of Health

Veteran’s Day Holiday, University Closed - November 11, 2010

Thanksgiving Holiday, University Closed - November 25-26, 2010

Period 1 - educational block 3 december 7, 2010 – Jan 10, 2011

− Pharmacology

− Cm: Doctor Patient Communication, Patient History, Physical Exam (continued)

− Pd: Complementary & Alternative Medicine (CAM), Humanism, and Medical

Jurisprudence I


− m&S: Addressing the Socio-Economic & Cultural Aspects of Health (continued)

Winter Break - December 23, 2010 – Jan. 2, 2011

New Year’s Holiday, University Closed - December 31, 2010, January 1, 2011


235

Period 1 - educational block 4 January 11 – february 21, 2011

− Microbiology, Infection, & Immunology



Jurisprudence I (continued)


−m&S: Interprofessional Approaches to Health

Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday, University Closed - January 17, 2011

Period 1 - educational block 5 february 7 – march 18, 2011

− Cellular & General Pathology



Jurisprudence I (continued)


− mS: Interprofessional Approaches to Health Disparities (continued)

Spring Break - March 21-27, 2011

Period 2 – SeSSion 1 march 28, 2011 – June 13, 2011

(integrated organ Systems)

Period 2 - educational block 1 march 28- april 25, 2011

− Hematopoietic & Lymphoreticular Systems − CM: Clinical Skills II

− Pd: Foundations of Health Care

− Pd: Professional Behavior II

− Pd: Evidence Based Medicine

− m&S: Team-Based Community

Period 2 - educational block 2 april 26 – may 16, 2011

− Endocrine System

− Cm: Clinical Skills II (continued)

− Pd: Foundations of Health Care (continued)

− Pd: Professional Behavior II (continued)

− Pd: Evidence Based Medicine (continued)

− m&S: Family Medicine Geriatric Clerkship

− m&S: Team-Based Community (continued)

235

Period 2 - educational block 3 may 17 – June 13, 2011

− Reproductive System

− Cm: Physical Diagnosis of Organ Systems (continued)

− Pd: Foundations of Health Care (continued)


− Pd: Evidence Based Medicine (continued)

− m&S: Family Medicine Geriatric Clerkship (continued)


Memorial Day Holiday, University Closed - May 30, 2011

Summer Break - June 15 - July 31, 2011

Period 2– SeSSion 2 august 1, 2011 – march 16, 2012


Period 2 - educational block 4 august 1- September 12, 2011

− Musculoskeletal System and Skin


− Pd: Health Care Policies and End of Life




Labor Day Holiday, University Closed September 5, 2011

Period 2 - educational block 5 September 13 – october 17, 2011

− Gastrointestinal System and Nutrition


− Pd: Health Care Policies and End of Life (continued)





236

Period 2 - educational block 6 october 18 – december 5, 2011

− Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems


− Pd: Health Care Policies and End of Life (continued – ends on November 22)

− Pd: Quality Improvement and Medical Jurisprudence II (begins on November 29)


− M&S: Team-Based Community (continued)

− M&S: Family Medicine Geriatric Clerkship (continued)

Veteran’s Day Holiday, University Closed November 11, 2011

Thanksgiving Holiday, University Closed November 24-25, 2011

Period 2 - educational block 7 december 6- december 21, 2011

− Renal System


− Pd: Quality Improvement and Medical Jurisprudence II (continued)




Period 2 - educational block 8 January 2 – march 16, 2012

− Nervous System: Brain and Behavior


− Pd: Quality Improvement and Medical Jurisprudence II (continued)





New Year’s Holiday, University Closed - January 2, 201

Dates subject to change.

Check your course syllabus and the College’s web site (http://medicine.fiu.edu)

for the latest academic schedule.

KEY:

CM: Clinical Medicine Strand

PD: Professional Development Strand

M&S: Medicine and Society Strand


237

ACADEMIC CALENDAR — SECOND-yEAR STUDENTS

Subject to Change

first day of classes august 2, 2010

Period 2– SeSSion 2 august 2, 2010 – march 18, 2011


Period 2 - educational block 4 august 2- September 13, 2010

− Musculoskeletal System and Skin


− Pd: Health Care Policies and End of Life

− Pd: Professional Behavior II

− m&S: Family Medicine Geriatric Clerkship

− m&S: Community, Cultures, and Health

Labor Day Holiday, University Closed - September 6, 2010

Period 2 - educational block 5 September 14 – october 18, 2011

− Gastrointestinal System and Nutrition


− Pd: Health Care Policies and End of Life (Continued)



− m&S: Community, Cultures, and Health (continued)

Period 2 - educational block 6 october 19 – december 6, 2011

− Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems


− Pd: Health Care Policies and End of Life (continued – ends on November 23)

− Pd: Quality Improvement, Medical Jurisprudence II, and Evidence Based Medicine

(begins on November 30)


− m&S: Community, Cultures, and Health (continued ends on November 24)

− m&S: Community Health in Practice (begins on December 1)


Veteran’s Day Holiday, University Closed - November 11, 2010

Thanksgiving Holiday, University Closed - November 25-26, 2010


238

Period 2 - educational block 7 december 7- december 22, 2011

− Renal System


(continued)


− m&S: Community Health in Practice (continued)



Period 2 - educational block 8 January 3 – march 18, 2011

− Nervous System: Brain and Behavior


(continued)


− m&S: Community Health in Practice (continued)


Martin Luther King Holiday - January 17, 2011

Spring Break - March 19 – April 3, 2011

Period 3 Clinical Clerkships april 11, 2011 – march 25, 2012

Memorial Day May 30, 2011

Independence Day Holiday, University Closed July 4, 2011

Labor Day Holiday, University Closed September 5, 2011

Veteran’s Day Holiday, University Closed November 11, 2011

Thanksgiving Holiday, University Closed November 24-25, 2011

Winter Holiday, University Closed December 23-25, 2011

New Year’s Holiday December 31, 2011- January 1, 2012

OSCE Research March 26 – April 1, 2012

USLME Study April 2 – April 29, 2010

Vacation April 30 – May 13, 2012

note: uSmle Part i must be taken by the end of Period 3.


239

Period 4 advanced Clinical Clerkship april 14, 2012 – april 9, 2013

graduation inaugural Class may 10, 2013

Dates subject to change.

Check your course syllabus and the College’s web site (http://medicine.fiu.edu)

for the latest academic schedule.

KEY:

CM: Clinical Medicine Strand

PD: Professional Development Strand

M&S: Medicine and Society Strand


240

Appendix D 2010-2011Student Handbook

241

Appendix ETHe FIu HerberT WerTHeIm College oF medICIne

242

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862

93

1986

874

1

27

1. Cleveland Clinic Florida - Weston* 25.7

2. Broward General Medical Center* 36.7

3. Memorial Regional Hospital* 28.9

4. Jackson North Medical Center* 22.9

5. Mount Sinai Medical Center 18.7

6. Michael S. Gordon Center 12.6 for Research in Medical Education

7. Miami Children’s Hospital 6.6

8. Mercy Hospital 12.3

9. Baptist Hospital of Miami* 10.1

Affiliate Hospitals

* These hospitals belong to health systems with which the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine has affiliation agreements. Note: Ambulatory sites are located within the geographical area of this map.

Green Family Foundation NeighborhoodHELPTM Program

Distance fromFIU (miles)

Core Clerkship

Electives/Selectives

Sub-Internships

Clinical Skills/Simulation

1 Cleveland Clinic Florida2 Broward General

Medical Center

4 Jackson NorthMedical Center

3 Memorial Regional Hospital

5 Mount SinaiMedical Center

6 Michael S. Gordon Center

7 Miami Children’sHospital

8 Mercy Hospital

9 Baptist Hospitalof Miami

Appendix F 2010-2011Student Handbook

243

09-‐16-‐10


Excused Absence From Class Approval Form

Name of Student: _______________________________________________________________ Panther ID: _________________________________ Date of Request: _______________

Date(s) to be excused: Starting date: ________________________ Ending time: __________________ Complete the table below for all courses that you are seeking excused absence: Name of Course: basic science or clinical

Name of Faculty Course Director

Signature of Course Director or email to the OSA*

Date signed

* Course director may alternatively send an email to indicate their approval in lieu of signature. Reason for excused absence: □ Professional conference □ Community service event □ Doctor/dentist appointment □ Personal □ Religious observance □ Residency interviews, USMLE preparation/examination □ Other: __________________________________________________________________________ Explanation for the absence selected above: How will you make up missed course work? ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Deadline to complete all missed course work: _________________________________________ I have notified all of the above course directors and have received permission to be excused on the above dates. I agree to make up all missed assignments by the above deadline.

Signature of Student: ____________________________________________________ Date: _______________ ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The above student may be excused from class or clerkship at the times outlined above. □ Yes □ No

_________________________________________________________ __________________ Signature, Executive Associate Dean for Student Affairs, or designee Date

Excused Absence Approval Form

244

Appendix GTHe FIu HerberT WerTHeIm College oF medICIne

Appendix H 2010-2011Student Handbook

245

246

Appendix ITHe FIu HerberT WerTHeIm College oF medICIne

247

Appendix J 2010-2011Student Handbook

vACCINATION INFORMATION

1. Meningitis Information

Meningitis is an infection of the fluid of a person’s spinal cord and the fluid that surrounds

the brain. People sometimes refer to it as spinal meningitis. Meningitis is usually caused by

a viral or bacterial infection. Knowing whether meningitis is caused by a virus or bacterium

is important because the severity of illness and the treatments differ. Viral meningitis is

generally less severe and resolves without specific treatment, while bacterial meningitis

can be quite severe and may result in brain damage, hearing loss, learning disability, or

death. For bacterial meningitis, it is also important to know which strain of bacteria is

causing the meningitis because antibiotics can prevent some types from spreading and

infecting other people. Neisseria meningitidis (also called meningococcal meningitis) is the

leading cause of bacterial meningitis.

What are the signs and symptoms of meningitis?

Common triad of symptoms: high fever, headache and stiff neck. These symptoms can

develop over several hours, or they may take 1-2 days. Other symptoms include nausea,

vomiting, skin rash, discomfort looking into light, confusion, and sleepiness.

How is meningitis diagnosed?

Early diagnosis and treatment are very important. If symptoms occur, the patient should

see a doctor immediately. The diagnosis is usually made in the laboratory from a sample

of spinal fluid. The spinal fluid is obtained by performing a spinal tap, in which a needle is

inserted into an area in the lower back where fluid in the spinal canal is readily accessible.

Test results from the spinal fluid can identify if the cause is viral or bacterial and, if the latter,

may help determine the selection of antibiotics most effective in treatment.

Can meningitis be treated?

Bacterial meningitis can be treated with a number of effective antibiotics. It is important,

however, that treatment be started early in the course of the disease. Appropriate antibiotic

treatment of most common types of bacterial meningitis should reduce the risk of dying

from meningitis to below 15%, although the risk is higher among the elderly.

Is meningitis contagious?

Yes, bacterial meningitis is highly contagious. The bacteria are spread through the

exchange of respiratory and throat secretions (i.e., coughing, kissing). Fortunately, none

of the bacteria that cause meningitis are as contagious as things like the common cold or

the flu, and they are not spread by casual contact or by simply breathing the air where a


248

person with meningitis has been. However, sometimes the bacteria that cause meningitis

have spread to other people who have had close or prolonged contact with a patient

with meningitis. People in the same household or day-care center, or anyone sharing a

bathroom or having direct contact with a patient’s oral secretions (such as a boyfriend or

girlfriend) would be considered at increased risk of acquiring the infection. People who

qualify as close contacts of a person with meningitis caused by N. meningitidis should

receive antibiotics immediately to prevent them from getting the disease.

Are there vaccines against meningitis?

Yes, there are vaccines that protect against some strains of N. meningitidis but there

are no vaccines to protect against viral forms. The Advisory Committee on Immunization

Practices (ACIP) recommends that all people at risk should receive one dose of the

conjugate vaccine (Menactra) whenever possible. This is particularly true for college

students who are under the age of 25 and live in close quarters with others or someone

who has had his/her spleen removed; these are two groups who have an increased risk of

acquiring meningococcal infection relative to other persons their age.

To learn more about meningitis and the vaccine, please contact a physician or visit the

CDC web site at www.cdc.gov.


249

2. Hepatitis B Information

Hepatitis B is a serious infectious disease caused by a virus that attacks the liver. The

hepatitis B virus (HBV) can cause life-long infection that may lead to cirrhosis (scarring) of

the liver, liver cancer, liver failure, or death. There is no cure for hepatitis B, but the infection

can be prevented by vaccination.

Symptoms of the Disease

Symptoms of hepatitis B can resemble the flu and may include fever, loss of appetite, low

energy, joint pain, cramping, or nausea and vomiting, as well as jaundice (yellow skin or

eyes). However, in about 50 percent of cases, hepatitis B causes no symptoms and some

of these become chronic carriers who are able to transmit the disease to others.

Transmission of the Disease

Hepatitis B is contagious and spreads when the blood or other body fluids of a person

with the virus are absorbed into an individual’s blood stream. The hepatitis B virus can live

in all body fluids of an infected person, including blood, saliva, semen, and vaginal fluids.

It can enter the body through cuts, tears, or abrasions in the skin and through mucous

membranes of the mouth, vagina, anus, and eyes. Hepatitis B can be transmitted through

sexual contact; by sharing razors, toothbrushes, shared needles for drug injection, or by

getting a tattoo or body piercing using non-sterile instruments or needles.

Risk Factors for Hepatitis B

Anyone who comes in contact with the blood or body fluids of an infected person is at risk

for hepatitis B. Certain behaviors can increase the risk, including unprotected sex (vaginal,

anal, and oral); getting a tattoo or body piercing; sharing items such as razors, earrings,

and toothbrushes; sharing injection drug paraphernalia; travel abroad to areas where

the disease is widespread; health care and other occupations that involve exposure to

infected blood or body fluids, and household contact with someone with chronic infection.

Vaccination Recommendations for College Students

A vaccine is available to help protect against hepatitis B. The U.S. Centers for Disease

Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends vaccination of everyone age 18 and under,

and anyone at high risk for hepatitis B, including health care professionals. The American

College Health Association (ACHA) recommends that all college students be vaccinated.

The hepatitis B vaccine is safe and effective. The most common side effect of the vaccine

is soreness at the site of the injection. Vaccination requires a series of three shots over

a six-month period. After that, a booster shot is usually not necessary but a Hepatitis B


250

surface antibody blood titer is required to document immunity with certainty and is required

by most of the FIU HWCOM hospital affiliates. The vaccine is effective in protecting more

than 96 percent of those who complete the three-dose vaccination series.

Other Forms of Prevention

In addition to vaccination, people can modify their behavior by using condoms during

sex and avoiding tattooing and body piercing with non-sterile instruments or techniques.

People should also avoid sharing needles, razors, or toothbrushes.

For more information about Hepatitis B and other infectious diseases

To learn more about hepatitis B and the vaccine, please contact your physician, visit the

CDC web site at www.cdc.gov, or contact the FIU University Health Services (www.fiu.

edu/~health) to receive the vaccine.

Appendix K 2010-2011Student Handbook

251

I acknowledge receipt of the policies and procedures contained in the Florida International

University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine Student Handbook. By signing this

statement, I agree to abide by all the policies and procedures contained therein and

any amendments that may occur from time to time. I understand that the College will

periodically review its policies and procedures in order to serve the needs of the University

and the College and to respond to mandates of the Florida Legislature, the Florida Board of

Governors, the Florida International University Board of Trustees, the federal government,

and other regulatory and accrediting agencies. The Florida International University and the

College reserve the right to change, rescind, or include additional policies and procedures

in the College’s Student Handbook. I understand that such changes may occur without

notice and that I agree to periodically check and review the online version of the Student

Handbook located at http://medicine.fiu.edu for the latest updates and revisions.

______________________________________________________________________________________Signature Date

____________________________________________________________________________Print Name

________________________________FIU Panther ID (provided by consent)

Return this signed form to the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine Office of Student

Affairs. thank you!

252


Notes

FIU Spirit

FIU Fight Song

We are the Panthers of FIu

The golden Panthers of FIu

We will continue to fight

With all of our might

For victory, for gold and blue

We stand together and proudly say

our golden Panthers go all the way

We’ll always strive for victory

blue-blooded through and through

‘Cause we’re FIu

go “F”! go “I”! go “u”! go “FIu”!

Panthers fight!

Panthers fight!

Panthers fight!

________________________________________

FIU Alma Mater

Hail to thee dear FIu

With voices true we pledge to thee

all our love and our devotion

Humble faith and loyalty

We will strive for understanding

and for peace and unity

We will search for truth and wisdom

We will always honor thee

FIu alma mater

Hail hail to thee

Student HandBook 2010-2011

Documents

Transcript of Student HandBook 2010-2011