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Taking Health Care to the "Nth Dimension"

URMC says it's working to restore access to 2.6 million files that are inaccessible after an IT mishap.
University of Rochester Medical Center
URMC says it's working to restore access to 2.6 million files that are inaccessible after an IT mishap.

The University of Rochester Medical Center is using a program designed to address the shortage of women and minorities in medicine.

It's called "Nth Dimension," and it gives medical students who may be considering orthopedics the chance to get some valuable experience in that field.

Spinal surgeon at URMC, Dr. Addisu Mesfin mentors students in the program.

Credit urmc.rochester.edu
Dr. Addisu Mesfin

He says as in all medicine, there is a need for enough physicians that reflect the population.

"There are efforts through nth dimension and the academy of orthopedic surgeons to recognize that and have programs in place to try to increase the diversity in the field," he said. "Having a diverse workforce means having differing viewpoints, which can result in better treatment for patients."

Dr. Mesfin says students spend the summer with him, working in research, the operating room, and the clinic.

He says the goal is to eventually have these women and minority students apply for an orthopedic residency.

Dr. Rishi Balkissoon took part in the Nth Dimension program.

Credit urmc.rochester.edu
Dr. Rishi Balkissoon

He says it was a life-changing experience.

"The single experience that really, truly allowed me to gain a certain level of confidence in myself, to believe that orthopedic surgery is a career that I can truly pursue," he said.

He says he also learned what it takes to become a good orthopedic surgeon.

Balkissoon says he'll serve as a preceptor next year and mentor students of his own.