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AHRQ's "Pocket Guide to Staying Healthy at 50+" was an integral part of the Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine's (VCOM) first annual Mini Medical School event held October 2004. This event was a collaborative effort on behalf of the faculty and students to improve health care education and awareness in the southwestern part of Virginia's Appalachian region.

Niyati Sheth, organizer of the event and second-year medical student at VCOM, says, "ÂÜÀòÊÓƵmaterials contained information pertinent to adults of all ages. This event was the beginning of something incredible for VCOM and this region. The Pocket Guides were distributed to adults who came through for the free health screening. They really benefited a lot of people, and we are all truly grateful for the generous donation."

The Mini Medical School consisted of a series of 12 lectures by students and faculty. It was free to the public, offering health topics ranging from emergency maneuvers to the importance of organ donation.

In addition to the lectures, various VCOM organizations had booths with health-related materials. There was also a "Mini-Mini Medical School" for children aged 12 and under.

A faculty physician took additional booklets to a free clinic associated with VCOM. The clinic is distributing the booklets to people over age 50 who have questions about improving their overall health.

Sheth adds, "The Pocket Guides have and will continue to benefit a lot of people. They are being used to help many in underserved populations who are most in need. I am very grateful for the help ÂÜÀòÊÓƵhas provided in making this free event possible, and I very much look forward to working with ÂÜÀòÊÓƵagain this year."