A Partnership To Care For The Chronically Ill

RIT biomedical sciences students Talia McKay, Kyle Burke and Rebecca Wilhelm are among the first health coaches in Rochester.

CREDIT A. SUE WEISLER / RIT.EDU

RIT is partnering with the Rochester Regional Health System and a physician organization to try and improve the health of chronically ill patients.

That collaboration between the university, the hospital system and the Greater Rochester Independent Practice Association is designed to help frail patients continue to live in their homes.

The students will act as "health coaches", reminding patients to take their medicine, exercise and eat nutritiously.

They also listen to their clients' concerns and questions which helps identify issues that might require additional medical care.  Officials say this will help train the students who are the health professionals of the future.

The students involved in this effort have to complete required coursework before visiting homes.

Randy Gorbman/WXXI News