Professional Goal #1: Develop a Stronger Understanding of Community Health Administration

One of my primary goals for this internship is to develop a stronger understanding of community health administration and how healthcare services are managed outside of traditional hospitals and physician offices. While my coursework at Old Dominion University has provided me with knowledge of healthcare systems, policy, finance, and management, I would like to see how these concepts are applied in real-world community settings. Through the Chesapeake Mobile Care Clinic, I will have the opportunity to observe how healthcare programs are planned, coordinated, and delivered directly to underserved populations. I expect to achieve this goal by participating in daily clinic operations, observing administrative processes, learning from healthcare professionals, and asking questions about the challenges involved in operating a mobile healthcare program. By the end of the internship, I hope to have a greater appreciation for the role healthcare administrators play in improving access to care and supporting the health of the communities they serve.

Professional Goal #2: Gain a Better Understanding of Healthcare Access Barriers and Health Equity

My second professional goal is to gain a better understanding of healthcare access barriers and the importance of health equity within communities. Many individuals face challenges that prevent them from receiving healthcare services, including transportation limitations, financial difficulties, lack of insurance coverage, language barriers, and limited access to providers. The Chesapeake Mobile Care Clinic was specifically created to help reduce many of these barriers by bringing healthcare services directly into the community. Throughout this internship, I expect to learn about these issues by observing patient interactions, participating in outreach activities, and discussing community health concerns with healthcare professionals and community partners. By the end of the internship, I hope to understand better how social determinants of health influence patient outcomes and how healthcare organizations can develop effective strategies to improve access to care for underserved populations.

Professional Goal #3: Strengthen Community Outreach and Engagement Skills

My third professional goal is to strengthen my community outreach and engagement skills. Successful community health programs depend on building trust, establishing relationships, and effectively communicating available resources to the populations they serve. Because the Chesapeake Mobile Care Clinic operates throughout the community and serves individuals in a variety of settings, I will have opportunities to observe and participate in outreach efforts designed to connect people with healthcare services. I expect to achieve this goal by assisting with outreach activities, observing how staff members interact with community members, learning about partnership development, and helping connect individuals with available resources and services. By the end of the internship, I hope to be more confident in my ability to engage with diverse populations, promote community health initiatives, and contribute to programs that improve health outcomes through education, outreach, and relationship-building.