Jessica Sallstrom is a third-year osteopathic medical student from A.T. Still University School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona and Ruth Lewinski is a pre-medical student in her senior year at the College of Idaho. This summer they spent some time at the Orcas Family Health Center.
OFHC: What has surprised you most?
Sallstrom: I came in believing that my time on Orcas would be great, and I have been absolutely blown away! I am consistently astounded by not only the beauty of the island, but also the generosity, hospitality and resilience shown by the individuals and families that get to call this wonderland “home.” I have loved learning from Dr. Shinstrom, Karen and everyone working at the clinic. Honestly, I am surprised by how much joy it brings me to be here each day. How many people get to say that medical school gets to be this fun?
LEWINSKI: I also knew that coming to the island would be an incredible experience, and am continually impressed by the level of community that is found in the office, amongst its staff and throughout the island. People truly care about each other here, and it shows in the healthcare. I am surprised by how lucky I feel to be here every day.
OFHC: How has OFHC changed your perspective on rural family medicine?
Sallstrom: Dr. Shinstrom and the wonderful community at OFHC embody compassionate competence and ensure that caring for the individual is the culture established here. I have also learned that rural family medicine is indeed “full spectrum,” providing an array of services that would normally be found only by an individual having to run around to different specialists. It is a gift to get to walk with individuals through all sorts of stages of illness and wellness – it is a journey, and OFHC gets to be the home base.
Lewinksi: The office truly symbolizes community care – everyone who walks through the door, patients, staff and students become a part of a group that strives for the benefit of all involved- that is how healthcare should work, with efficiency and authenticity and an occasional potluck. Meeting patients has given me an appreciation for ‘the lessons of life.’ This experience has reinforced my desire to work in a rural setting when I become a physician.
OFHC: Character/fun question – what is your spirit animal and why?
Sallstrom: My spirit animal is a river otter. I just love time spent in the water! On my days off here, you can find me kayaking around Sucia Island or swimming at Cascade Lake. River otters are loyal to family and friends and also seem like they enjoy life quite a lot. I am definitely always trying to incorporate more joy into my life.
Lewinski: I would be a merlin. I have loved finding perches on the island, hiking around Moran State Park and catching sunsets at Turtleback. Birds of prey are tenacious and look at fine details in a big picture, which, for me, is fitting.
