UIW Med Students Join “Walk with a Doc” Promoting Health and Wellness in Southside San Antonio

Credits to Dr. Leticia Vargas

In a vibrant display of community spirit and dedication to public health, medical students from the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) recently participated in the "Walk with a Doc" program in San Antonio on Saturday, July 20. This initiative, designed to promote physical activity and wellness, provides an opportunity for community members to walk alongside doctors and medical students, engaging in conversations about health and wellness.

The event, held at Southside Lions Park (Ramon V. Quintero Community Center), drew a diverse group of participants, ranging from young children to seniors, all eager to benefit from the wealth of knowledge offered by their walking companions. UIW med students mingled with attendees, sharing insights on various health topics including nutrition, exercise and managing stress.

"Walk with a Doc" is a national program that encourages physical activity and facilitates a more personal connection between healthcare providers and the communities they serve. For the UIW med students, participating in this initiative was a chance to step out of the classroom and interact directly with the people they hope to serve in their future careers.

Dr. Leticia Vargas, a local physician and mentor to the students, led this walk and emphasized the importance of these interactions. She shared that, "Programs like 'Walk with a Doc' break down barriers and build trust between healthcare providers and the community. They also give our med students a firsthand look at the importance of preventative care and healthy lifestyle choices."

"Walk with a Doc was lovely," shared Pranav Kakulamarri, UIWSOM student. "It was a highlight of my week to talk about health issues, practices on providing better healthcare and simply talk about life with fellow students and doctors. The community needs more engaging activities with healthcare professionals like this to not only learn more about their health, but also to simply have a good time."

As the event ended, many participants expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to connect with the med students and learn more about maintaining a healthy lifestyle. With future walks set for every third Saturday of the month, "Walk with a Doc" promises to continue being a valuable asset to the San Antonio community, promoting health and wellness one step at a time.