In a bid to address the pressing podiatric health issues faced by underserved and uninsured populations in Pomona, CA, Rameesha Asif-Sattar, a second-year DPM student, spearheaded the revival of the PCHAT Foot and Ankle Clinic in collaboration with Dr. Rebecca Moellmer, Assistant Dean and Associate Professor at the WesternU College of Podiatric Medicine, and the Pomona Community Health Action Team (PCHAT). The clinic’s revival was not without its challenges, as the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a temporary shutdown. However, through a dedicated fundraising effort that garnered an impressive $3,000, the clinic secured the necessary funds for essential medical equipment and supplies.
PCHAT’s Foot and Ankle’s first event since COVID-19 took place on Saturday, April 29, 2023 at God’s Pantry in Pomona, with Dr. Moellmer as the clinic preceptor and 10 first and second year podiatric medical students.
The interprofessional event showcased collaborative efforts between podiatric and osteopathic medical students from the general PCHAT Clinic. Patients, primarily from vulnerable populations, received free foot and ankle screenings, addressing issues such as vascularity, neurological symptoms, musculoskeletal pain, and dermatology. Treatments offered included debridement, compression wrapping, nail clipping, educational handouts, and the distribution of foot care packages including clean socks collected during the CPMA holiday sock drive.
As the PCHAT Foot and Ankle Clinic strives to be a culturally sensitive ally for the Pomona community, it aims to continue its mission of reducing health disparities, one step at a time. Through sustainable efforts, the clinic aspires to be a beacon of support and preventative care for those managing systemic diseases affecting the lower extremities in the years ahead.
Rameesha Asif-Sattar’s efforts were highlighted in an article she authored for the Fall 2023 APMSA Footnotes Magazine.