Inland Empire Free Clinic: Help us help others!

The Inland Empire Free Clinic is staffed with CUSM physicians who are assisted by our gifted medical students. They are deeply committed to transforming lives through preventative health initiatives in the Inland Empire, a region underserved and often overlooked. Our student-led projects, ranging from health education in middle schools to critical health screenings for the unhoused, directly address the pressing needs of communities in Colton, San Bernardino, and Redlands. Each year, our programs touch lives across various demographics, providing essential services that would otherwise remain out of reach for many.

Your support can make a profound difference. With every donation, you help us sustain and expand initiatives like our 8-week health courses at Joe Baca Middle School, which not only educate but inspire the next generation of health professionals. Your contributions enable us to continue our wellness events, which offer free health monitoring and chronic disease prevention, and our gleaning efforts, which rescue thousands of pounds of produce for food kitchens annually. As a volunteer-driven organization, every dollar you donate is maximized to further our mission, helping us reach more people and make a larger impact in the community. Join us in creating a healthier, more hopeful Inland Empire.

We propose the purchase of a converted van equipped with high-fidelity healthcare simulation technology to reach and provide medical education in rural communities. This initiative offers hands-on, practical medical training to healthcare professionals in underserved areas, enhances local capacity, and ensures healthcare quality and safety.

$50,000 Funding Opportunity: Initial Program Development and Pilot Testing

• Objective: Lay the groundwork for the Mobile Healthcare Simulation initiative with a focus on program development, curriculum design, and pilot testing with portable simulation equipment in a rented vehicle.
• Key Components:
  • Curriculum Development: Design a tailored curriculum that addresses the most pressing healthcare needs in rural areas.
  • Portable Simulation Equipment: Acquire basic portable simulation tools and technology for initial training sessions.
  • Rental Vehicle for Pilot Testing: Use rental vehicles to conduct pilot training sessions in selected rural communities.
  • Impact Assessment: Develop and implement a tool for evaluating the pilot program's effectiveness in improving healthcare provider skills and knowledge.
• Outcome: Validate the program's concept, determine its feasibility, and gather preliminary data on its potential impact.

$100,000 Funding Opportunity: Enhanced Program Development and Expanded Pilot

• Objective: Expand the pilot testing phase and enhance the program's curriculum and simulation equipment.
• Key Components:
  • Enhanced Simulation Equipment: Purchase additional, more advanced portable simulation equipment.
  • Expanded Curriculum: Further develop the curriculum to include a wider range of medical scenarios.
  • Extended Pilot Testing: Conduct a more extensive pilot program in a larger number of rural communities.
  • Marketing and Outreach: Initiate marketing and outreach efforts to raise awareness among rural healthcare providers.
• Outcome: Refine program offerings based on broader pilot testing and prepare for a full-scale rollout.

$200,000 Funding Opportunity: Vehicle Purchase and Initial Retrofit

• Objective: Purchase and begin retrofitting a van to serve as the mobile simulation unit, alongside acquiring high-fidelity simulation equipment.
• Key Components:
  • Purchase of Van: Acquire a suitable van that will be retrofitted as a mobile simulation lab.
  • Initial Conversion and Retrofitting: Start the conversion process to outfit the van with the necessary infrastructure for simulation training (e.g., power, climate control).
  • High-Fidelity Simulation Equipment: Begin purchasing high-fidelity mannequins and other essential simulation tools.\
• Outcome: Establish the physical foundation of the mobile simulation lab and begin equipping it for future operations.

>$200,000 Funding Opportunity: Full Program Launch and Implementation

• Objective: Fully implement the Mobile Healthcare Simulation Van initiative, including comprehensive vehicle retrofitting, equipment acquisition, staffing, and program launch.
• Key Components:
  • Complete Vehicle Conversion: Finish retrofitting the van to create a state-of-the-art mobile simulation lab.
  • Comprehensive Simulation Equipment: Acquire a full suite of high-fidelity simulation mannequins, medical equipment, and technology.
  • Staffing: Hire a team of medical educators, simulation technicians, and a driver.
  • Program Launch: Officially launch the program, offering a full schedule of training sessions to rural healthcare providers.
  • Sustainability Measures: Implement strategies for financial, environmental, and community sustainability, ensuring long-term operation and impact.
• Outcome: Fully operationalize the Mobile Healthcare Simulation Van initiative, significantly enhancing access to medical training in rural areas and improving healthcare outcomes.

<$100,000 Funding Opportunity: Initial Program Setup and Pilot Testing

• Objective: Kickstart the program with foundational elements, focusing on core curriculum development and initial pilot testing.
• Key Components:
  • Curriculum Design: Develop an initial curriculum that incorporates critical aspects of pre-hospital and hospital care, utilizing available simulation tools and resources.
  • Basic Simulation Equipment Acquisition: Invest in essential simulation equipment that can be used for both pre-hospital and hospital care training.
  • Pilot Workshops: Conduct pilot workshops in targeted settings to gather feedback, assess training efficacy, and refine program elements.
• Outcome: Establish a foundational simulation-based training program framework, with pilot testing offering insights for refinement and future expansion.

$200,000 Funding Opportunity: Program Enhancement and Mobile Unit Initiation

• Objective: Enhance training capabilities with improved simulation equipment and initiate the development of a mobile training unit for broader outreach.
• Key Components:
  • Advanced Simulation Equipment Purchase: Acquire more sophisticated simulation equipment, including virtual reality systems, to enrich training scenarios.
  • Mobile Unit Development: Invest in a vehicle capable of being converted into a mobile training unit, focusing on outreach to underserved areas.
  • Expanded Curriculum and Training: Broaden the curriculum to include a wider array of medical scenarios and begin offering more comprehensive training sessions using the new equipment.
• Outcome: A more robust simulation-based training program with the initial steps taken toward developing a mobile unit for extended reach and impact.

$400,000 Funding Opportunity: Full-Scale Mobile Training Unit and Program Expansion

• Objective: Fully develop and deploy the mobile training unit, significantly expand the curriculum, and increase the program's reach and sophistication.
• Key Components:
  • Complete Mobile Unit Retrofit: Finish outfitting the mobile training unit with all necessary modifications and state-of-the-art simulation equipment for on-the-go training.
  • Curriculum Expansion: Further expand the training curriculum to include comprehensive pre-hospital, hospital, and transitional care scenarios, incorporating interprofessional education components.
  • Staffing and Operational Support: Hire additional staff, including educators and support personnel, and establish operational support for the expanded program and mobile unit activities.
• Outcome: A comprehensive, fully operational simulation-based training program with a mobile unit ready to deliver advanced training across various locations, enhancing access to quality medical education.

>$500,000 Funding Opportunity: Program Sustainability, Research, and Community Integration

• Objective: Ensure long-term sustainability of the program, integrate research opportunities, and deepen community engagement and impact.
• Key Components:
  • Sustainability Initiatives: Develop partnerships, sponsorship opportunities, and grant applications to secure ongoing funding. Implement fee-for-service elements where applicable.
  • Research and Innovation: Invest in research initiatives to evaluate the effectiveness of simulation training on patient outcomes and healthcare delivery. Explore innovative training technologies and methodologies.
  • Comprehensive Community Engagement: Expand community engagement efforts, including community-driven scenario development, feedback mechanisms, and targeted training for underserved populations.
  • Enhanced Interprofessional and Multidisciplinary Training: Develop advanced training modules that foster interprofessional collaboration and multidisciplinary approaches to patient care.
• Outcome: A self-sustaining, research-informed, and community-integrated simulation-based training program that not only educates but also innovates and leads in the improvement of healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.

By tailoring the scope and deliverables of the program to fit within these specific funding ranges, the initiative can effectively scale up its operations, widen its impact, and ensure its sustainability, thereby contributing significantly to the advancement of healthcare education and patient care.

Proposal Title 

Enhancing Patient Safety in the Inland Empire: Supporting CUSM's Clinical Skills and Simulation Center

Summary Statement 

Your support for CUSM's Clinical Skills and Simulation Center is pivotal in enhancing patient safety and quality care across the Inland Empire. This investment equips a new generation of healthcare professionals with the skills and compassion needed to serve its diverse communities effectively. Your contribution is not just aid, but a commitment to elevating healthcare standards in a region that truly needs it. 

Estimated Funding Requested 

The average funding range for this proposal is $225,000 in support of a single high-fidelity patient safety training room to $1,300,000 to fully equip all four rooms. Details regarding the funding can be found in the appendix below. 

Executive Summary 

Introduction 

CUSM is a leader in medical education, committed to enhancing patient safety and quality care in the Inland Empire, an area grappling with healthcare disparities. 

Addressing the Social Problem 

The Inland Empire's healthcare challenges include limited access to quality services and a scarcity of trained professionals, compounded by a diverse population with varied medical and cultural needs. 

The Solution: High Fidelity Simulation Rooms 

In response, CUSM's Clinical Skills and Simulation Center has developed High Fidelity Simulation Rooms, including: 

1. Operating Room: For complex surgical procedure training. 

1. Emergency Room: Simulating high-pressure emergency care. 

1. Intensive Care Unit: Focused on critical care training. 

1. Obstetrics & Pediatrics Suite: Dedicated to maternal and child healthcare. 

Programs and Services 

These rooms provide vital hands-on experience in a safe environment, allowing practice of real-life scenarios crucial for patient safety and effective care, particularly beneficial for professionals serving diverse populations. 

Impact of Non-Existence 

The absence of CUSM’s advanced simulation facilities in the Inland Empire would limit the enhancement of medical professionals' skills, particularly in high-stakes and critical care scenarios, crucial for patient safety and care quality. CUSM's unique training environment significantly contributes to healthcare excellence in the region, fostering advanced skills, reducing medical errors, and improving patient outcomes. 

Distinctiveness of CUSM 

CUSM's uniqueness lies in its commitment to the Inland Empire's diverse populations, offering programs that create a medically proficient and culturally competent workforce. 

The Difference Made by Donors 

Donor contributions are essential for enhancing patient safety and care quality. By funding our simulation rooms, donors make a lasting impact, with potential room naming as a testament to their commitment. 

Conclusion 

Supporting CUSM’s Clinical Skills and Simulation Center means investing in a healthier future for the Inland Empire, ensuring high-quality, compassionate care for the community. 

Proposal Details 

Introduction  

The California University of Science and Medicine (CUSM) is a pivotal institution in the realm of medical education and patient care, especially notable in its service to the Inland Empire. This region, characterized by its medically underserved communities, faces unique healthcare challenges that CUSM is dedicated to addressing. At the heart of our mission is the unwavering commitment to enhance patient safety and deliver superior quality care. This commitment is actualized through our cutting-edge training and educational programs. 

CUSM's approach to medical education is deeply rooted in innovation and excellence. We understand that the rapidly evolving medical landscape requires a new generation of healthcare professionals who are not only clinically skilled but also adept in managing the complexities of modern healthcare systems. Our curriculum is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of contemporary medical practices, alongside a strong foundation in patient-centered care. 

In the Inland Empire, where access to healthcare is limited and the population is incredibly diverse, CUSM plays a critical role. We focus on training medical professionals who can navigate these challenges effectively. Our programs emphasize cultural competence, ensuring that our graduates are prepared to provide care that is respectful of and responsive to the cultural and linguistic needs of the patients they serve. 

To further our mission, CUSM has invested in state-of-the-art facilities and resources. These include advanced simulation labs where students can practice and hone their skills in a risk-free environment. By simulating real-life medical scenarios, we ensure that our students gain the practical experience and confidence necessary to excel in high-pressure healthcare settings. 

Moreover, our commitment to patient safety is evident in every aspect of our training. We teach our students the importance of evidence-based practices, patient communication, and interdisciplinary teamwork, all of which are critical to reducing medical errors and improving patient outcomes. 

In summary, CUSM's role in the Inland Empire is more than just educational; it's transformative. We are not only educating future medical professionals; we are also shaping the future of healthcare in a region that desperately needs it. By fostering a new era of skilled, compassionate, and culturally competent healthcare providers, CUSM is making a profound and lasting impact on patient safety and quality care in the Inland Empire and beyond. 

Addressing the Social Problem  

The Inland Empire, a region integral to the fabric of California, is confronted with substantial healthcare challenges that underscore the critical need for systemic change. This area is particularly marked by its limited access to quality medical services, a situation that significantly hampers the overall health and well-being of its residents. The gravity of this issue is further compounded by a noticeable shortage of well-trained healthcare professionals, a shortfall that poses a serious concern for the delivery of adequate medical care. 

Complicating these challenges is the rich diversity of the Inland Empire's population. This diversity, while a strength in cultural richness, brings with it a complexity in healthcare needs. Providers in this region must navigate a labyrinth of medical conditions that are as varied as the population itself. This requires not just medical expertise, but also a deep understanding and sensitivity to the cultural nuances and unique health profiles of different communities. 

The variety in linguistic needs, health beliefs, and practices, along with socioeconomic factors, creates an intricate mosaic of healthcare requirements. In response, healthcare providers must be equipped with a multifaceted skill set. They need to be proficient not only in their medical knowledge but also in their ability to culturally and linguistically tailor their care. This adaptability and understanding are essential in ensuring that all members of this diverse community receive healthcare that is not only effective but also respectful and empathetic. 

Furthermore, the Inland Empire's healthcare landscape is characterized by an uneven distribution of resources, which exacerbates the difficulty in accessing quality care. Rural areas, in particular, face significant barriers due to fewer healthcare facilities and specialists. This uneven distribution creates pockets within the region where residents are at a disadvantage, with limited options for timely and adequate medical treatment. 

In addressing these multifaceted challenges, there is a pressing need for a concerted effort to not only increase the number of healthcare professionals in the region but also to enhance their training and cultural competence. Such efforts are crucial in bridging the gaps in healthcare delivery and in meeting the diverse needs of this vibrant community. The goal is to cultivate a healthcare environment where quality, inclusivity, and accessibility are the cornerstones, ensuring that every resident of the Inland Empire has the opportunity to achieve optimal health. 

The Solution: High-Fidelity Simulation Training Rooms 

• Top of Form 

In addressing the multifaceted healthcare challenges of the Inland Empire, the California University of Science and Medicine (CUSM) has pioneered a forward-thinking solution: the establishment of High-Fidelity Simulation Rooms within our Clinical Skills and Simulation Center. These facilities are not just rooms; they are technologically advanced, immersive environments that mirror the real-world complexity of healthcare settings. The simulation rooms include: 

1. Operating Room: A fully-equipped space designed for training in a range of complex surgical procedures, offering healthcare professionals hands-on experience in a simulated surgical environment. 

1. Emergency Room: Crafted to mimic the high-pressure environment of emergency care, this room prepares students for the fast-paced decision-making required in emergency medicine. 

1. Intensive Care Unit: This simulation space is tailored for critical care training, allowing for the practice of skills necessary in the management of critically ill patients. 

1. Obstetrics & Pediatrics Suite: Dedicated to the specialized fields of maternal and child healthcare, this suite provides a unique setting for practicing obstetric and pediatric care scenarios.  

Programs and Services  

Integral to our educational programs, these High-Fidelity Simulation Rooms provide an invaluable hands-on experience. They stand as a testament to CUSM's commitment to innovative, experiential learning. In these controlled, risk-free environments, students can rehearse and refine their skills through real-life scenarios. This practical approach is crucial for developing the competencies essential for patient safety and effective care delivery. 

More importantly, these simulation rooms are instrumental in preparing healthcare professionals for service in diverse and underserved populations. By offering training that encompasses a wide range of medical situations, CUSM ensures that its graduates are not only clinically proficient but also equipped to handle the unique challenges and nuances of serving a diverse community. Through this advanced simulation-based training, CUSM is actively contributing to the elevation of healthcare standards in the Inland Empire, ensuring that future healthcare professionals are well-prepared to deliver quality care across various medical disciplines and settings. 

Impact of Non-Existence  

If the California University of Science and Medicine (CUSM) and its advanced simulation facilities were not a part of the Inland Empire’s healthcare landscape, the region would face certain challenges in further advancing the skillset of its medical professionals. While there would still be competent healthcare workers, the unique and specialized training offered by CUSM, particularly in high-stakes medical scenarios, provides an additional layer of preparedness that significantly benefits patient safety and care quality. 

The absence of CUSM would mean missing out on certain enhancements in healthcare delivery, particularly in complex and critical care scenarios. The simulation facilities at CUSM offer a unique environment for medical professionals to refine their skills and decision-making abilities, an experience that directly translates to improved patient care. This advanced training is key in reducing medical errors and increasing patient safety, aspects that are crucial in elevating the overall healthcare standards in the region. 

Moreover, the impact of CUSM goes beyond the tangible skills acquired in the simulation rooms. The feedback and experiences from trainees and the communities they serve have consistently highlighted the positive effects of such immersive training. CUSM’s role in the Inland Empire contributes significantly to the ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare outcomes and patient experiences. 

In summary, while the Inland Empire would continue to have skilled healthcare professionals, the unique contributions of CUSM, particularly in terms of advanced simulation-based training, play a crucial role in further elevating the quality of healthcare in the region. The benefits of this training are multifaceted, enhancing not only the technical skills of healthcare providers but also impacting patient safety and the overall quality of care in meaningful ways.Top of Form 

 Distinctiveness of CUSM  

What distinctly defines the California University of Science and Medicine (CUSM) is our deep-rooted commitment to addressing the healthcare needs of the Inland Empire’s diverse and underserved populations. At CUSM, our approach to medical education is uniquely responsive to the intricacies of this region. We recognize that effective healthcare extends beyond medical proficiency; it requires a nuanced understanding of the cultural and social contexts of the patients we serve. 

Our educational programs are meticulously designed to interweave clinical expertise with cultural competence. This dual focus ensures that our graduates are not just skilled in medical procedures and technologies but are also adept in navigating the cultural landscapes of their patients. We understand that in a region as varied as the Inland Empire, the ability to provide care that is both medically sound and culturally sensitive is crucial. 

This commitment to cultural competence sets CUSM apart. We train healthcare professionals who are equipped to understand and respect the diverse backgrounds of their patients, thereby fostering trust and improving patient outcomes. Our graduates emerge as more than just healthcare providers; they are advocates and allies to the communities they serve, capable of bridging gaps in healthcare through understanding and empathy. 

In summary, CUSM stands out for its dedication to creating a healthcare workforce that is as culturally competent as it is clinically skilled. Our focus on tailoring programs to the unique needs of the Inland Empire’s population ensures that our graduates are well-prepared to make a meaningful and positive impact in the region’s diverse healthcare landscape. 

The Difference Made by Donors  

Philanthropic contributions are a vital aspect of our mission at the California University of Science and Medicine (CUSM). Donor support for our High-Fidelity Simulation Rooms is more than just a financial investment; it's a direct contribution towards elevating patient safety and enhancing the quality of healthcare in the Inland Empire. By funding these state-of-the-art facilities, donors become integral partners in our effort to provide advanced training to healthcare professionals. 

The opportunity for donors to have a simulation room named in their honor is a profound acknowledgment of their commitment to healthcare improvement. This gesture serves as a lasting symbol of their dedication to making a positive difference in medical education and, consequently, patient care. The named rooms stand as a testament to their vision and generosity, inspiring future generations of medical professionals. 

The support from donors does more than just equip a facility; it directly influences the quality of training that healthcare professionals receive. This training is crucial for preparing them to face the varied and complex medical challenges in the Inland Empire. Through their support, donors are helping to shape the future of healthcare, ensuring that the next generation of medical professionals is well-prepared, highly skilled, and deeply committed to patient care. 

In essence, the contributions of our donors have a ripple effect, extending far beyond the walls of the simulation rooms. Their support not only enhances the learning experience of medical trainees but also has a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals who will receive care from these well-trained professionals. This partnership is a pivotal part of our journey towards a healthier, better-served Inland Empire. 

Conclusion  

Your support for the California University of Science and Medicine’s (CUSM) Clinical Skills and Simulation Center signifies an investment in a healthier Inland Empire. Together, we can ensure the community receives the high-quality, compassionate healthcare it deserves, fostering a future where excellence in patient care is a standard accessible to all. 

Funding Proposal: Gaumard HAL S5301 Interdisciplinary and Immersive Simulator Manikin

The Gaumard HAL S5301 is a state-of-the-art clinical patient simulator that sets a new standard in medical education. This interdisciplinary and immersive simulator manikin offers a cutting-edge platform that closely mimics real-life medical emergencies and surgical procedures. It provides healthcare professionals with the unparalleled opportunity to refine their skills in a safe, controlled environment.

Objectives of the Simulator Implementation:

• Enhance Medical Education: By immersing students and professionals in realistic, high-pressure scenarios, the simulator enhances the learning experience, making it more engaging and effective.
• Improve Stroke Management: The simulator is specifically designed to improve the diagnosis and management of stroke, employing advanced features that allow for the practice of nuanced facial recognition and critical decision-making skills.
• Build Confidence and Competency: The simulator prepares medical professionals for real-world challenges, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle complex medical situations with confidence and expertise.

Anticipated Outcomes: Significant advancements in medical training

• Increased Diagnostic Accuracy: Enhanced training modules focusing on stroke symptoms will lead to quicker and more accurate diagnoses.
• Reduced Response Times: Simulated scenarios designed to mimic emergency situations will decrease the time to treatment initiation.
• Improved Patient Outcomes: Better prepared healthcare providers mean higher quality care, leading to better overall patient outcomes.
• Boosted Practitioner Confidence: Extensive hands-on experience in a risk-free environment will foster greater confidence among medical students and professionals.

How Donations Make a Difference

Contributions toward the acquisition of the Gaumard S5301 will directly impact the future of medical training by providing a sophisticated tool that goes beyond traditional educational methods. Donors will play a critical role in shaping a new era of healthcare education, empowering practitioners with the skills to excel in the diagnosis and treatment of stroke, ultimately leading to higher standards of patient care.

By investing in this innovative technology, our donors are not just funding a tool; they are helping to forge a future where medical professionals are better prepared to save lives and enhance health outcomes across communities.

Funding Needed

$158,000