In OACA, we are reimagining health by driving innovation and discovery through collaborations across the University, advancing interdisciplinary training and education, and serving as a strong partner to the state, industry, and community. From rural health initiatives to trauma-informed care simulation training and efforts to improve community health, these are the top 10 most-read stories from the Office of Academic Clinical Affairs in 2025.
10) A bridge across campuses: M Simulation strengthens regional medical education
Before second-year medical students began their clinical rotations this year, they took part in a new initiative called Bridge Week, which eased the transition by preparing them with essential technical and communication skills for patient care.
9) Working to ensure no patient falls through the cracks
When medical student Jamel Benhamida learned about the Mobile Health Initiative (MHI), he felt an immediate connection. He says volunteering with MHI is especially meaningful because it allows him to provide culturally sensitive health care to patients who struggle to reach traditional clinics.
8) Where research meets care: new StudyFinder kiosk connects minnesotans to clinical trials
The StudyFinder kiosk, launched in 2025 by the Clinical and Translational Science Institute, brings clinical trial opportunities directly to patients in the CSC lobby. It aims to connect more Minnesotans with studies and advance health care discoveries.
7) Healing through nature: Ecohealth Quest combines science, collaboration and reflection
The Ecohealth Quest engaged health sciences students in hands-on, interprofessional learning outdoors. Participants explored ecohealth case studies, collaborated on activities and reflected on the links between human, animal and environmental health.
6) First-ever study of Minnesota nursing home medical directors sheds light on hidden challenges and opportunities
Medical directors in Minnesota nursing homes face major challenges, including staffing shortages, poor communication, regulatory burdens, and professional isolation.
5) Understanding how delirium affects older adults
MN Northstar GWEP developed a toolkit to help caregivers and clinicians recognize, prevent, and respond to delirium, supporting seniors’ safety, well-being, and dignity.
4) Fostering connection through art – Community Arts @ Health Sciences
The Health Sciences Education Center (HSEC) showcased the third Community Arts @ Health Sciences exhibition last November. Led by faculty and staff across the health sciences, the exhibit celebrates creativity, collaboration and connection.
3) Innovative partnership brings life-saving colorectal cancer screenings to underserved communities
The Masonic Cancer Center (MCC), in collaboration with the Mobile Health Initiative (MHI), launched a program to address disparities and improve health outcomes for Somali and African American populations, who face some of the lowest colorectal cancer screening rates in the state.
2) The power of mobile health
"Humanity, as well as health care, extends beyond language,” said medical student Kenny Ta, reflecting on his work with the Mobile Health Initiative.
1) Driven to make health care more accessible
In the fall of 2023, Hwang founded the Mobile Health Student Interest Group. “Seeing the impact of their work, I recognized the value of creating a structured student group that would provide more consistent, long-term support for MHI,” she said
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