By Dennis Archambault

The future of medical training took a step forward in Detroit last night as Authority Health teaching health center residents received certificates of completion for the Population Health Certification program. This enhancement of the community-based residency training program is unique among residency programs, but important in preparing physicians to practice true community-centered care. While population health is increasingly becoming a topic of lectures and readings, a dedicated curriculum, group learning sessions, and a research project over two years reinforces the knowledge through experience. The ceremony last night may have been subtle, in terms of pomp and circumstance, but significant no less.

Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association, an internist by training, sent a videotaped message of commendation for their achievement and the vision of Authority Health to extend its population health orientation to its residency program. Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, a public health physician, researcher, and director of the Detroit Department of Health and Wellness Promotion, offered similar congratulatory remarks in person, underscoring the importance of practicing medicine outside “the walls” of health systems and within the community. He noted that physicians who practiced extended periods in communities tend to be happier. He also said that longevity of practice offers physicians an opportunity to gain a sense of place, and ultimately a sense of the people who inhabit the place, their morbidity, and ultimately their opportunities to become healthier.

Chris Allen, Authority Health CEO, and Dr. Phyllis Meadows, associate dean for Practice at the University of Michigan School of Public Health, who initiated a partnership to develop this program over years ago, also offered comments that reflected the significance not only of the individual physicians achievement, but what this means for medical training in the future.

As Dr. Benjamin noted, “Had you chosen not to do a community-oriented residency, your medical training would have been incomplete.” This certification was icing on the cake.

Dennis Archambault is vice president for Public Affairs at Authority Health.