University of Maryland Telepsychiatry

Western students are benefitting from a new program of its partnership with the University of Maryland School of Mental Health. This fall, the University installed a complete interactive video teleconferencing center at Western. It provides Western students the opportunity to interact with University professors, health care specialists, and resources directly from Western's Health classroom. The program focuses on educating Westernites about addiction.

During the first session, shown here, Thomas Sloane of the University of Maryland, Mr. King, Western's Health teacher, and Mr. King's class discussed addiction: what the students know about it, and what they would like to learn. Dr. Sloan shared some stories of patients he has treated and provided technical information. In addition, a young woman who is a recovered addict conversed with the students. "We are fortunate to have this technology; it takes our students beyond the classroom and into the world of University research and experience."