MedEx Day 4 - July 1, 2021

Today was the fourth day of MedEx Tier III and the final day of the week because of the 4th of July. Today was also the first all virtual day of MedEx, hence the photo of one of my zoom screens from today. To start today, all MedEx Tier III completed employee health screenings at Prisma Health Patewood. Our height and waist measurements were taken, and we had blood drawn to check our A1C and lipid panels. This was just a checkup that MedExers have every year.

Later on in the day, MedEx Tier III had a virtual presentation with Dr. Gonzales about the Appalachia region of the United States and the Keirsey Temperament Sorter. In her discussion of the Appalachian region of the USA, Dr. Gonzales shared about the health challenges associated with that region of America. There are higher rates of many diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, alcoholism, etc. than the natural average; also, this region encompasses all of the upstate of SC. I felt that my competency and understanding of the South and some of the reasons why Southerners may have poorer health than the national average increased from her presentation. Southerners generally have a worse diet and have worse exercise habits. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed Dr. Gonzales' presentation and understood more why there are so many physicians who are needed within SC.

Afterwards Tier III had a presentation from Dr. Allen (pictured above) from Furman University about International Business and Etiquette. This presentation focused on how to be culturally competent when going abroad for business/ travel. It is important to know the language, culture, religion, customs, and etiquette of countries before going to a specific country. If these things are known, it can give one a big advantage over competitors in business. We discussed formal dining/ styles of dining at home and abroad, as well. I felt that my understanding of business etiquette was greatly enhanced.

Lastly, the Prisma dietician returned to talk to us about meal prep. This was a very helpful discussion/ continuation of our conversation from yesterday about the importance of eating healthily and how to do that. I enjoyed my first week!