Humanistic Elective in Activism,
Reflective Transformation, and Integrative Medicine (HEART-IM)
March 31 – April 26, 2019
Quaker Center, Ben Lomond, CA
It is only with the heart that one can see clearly; what is essential is invisible to the eyes….
The Humanistic Elective in Activism, Reflective Transformation, and Integrative Medicine (HEART-IM) offers a unique and meaningful opportunity for twenty-five (25) fourth-year medical students to conclude their medical school journey with a deeper exploration of healing. Designed for students with a strong interest in integrating healing practices into modern medicine, this month-long elective fosters personal and professional growth as participants prepare to step into their roles as healer-physicians.
The program is structured as a collaborative living and learning experience, where participants will form a close-knit community dedicated to exploring the healing path. Students will share responsibilities such as cooking and cleaning, creating an environment of mutual support and learning. Throughout the month, they will engage in discussions and activities that expand their understanding of essential topics not typically emphasized in traditional medical curricula. Reflection and self-care will be key components of the experience.
The elective will feature didactic and experiential sessions led by experienced physician mentors and other experts. Topics will include intentional community building, holistic and integrative medicine, social justice and activism, reflective transformation through meditative practices, and essential personal growth skills such as communication and intention-setting. Clinical site visits will highlight ways to integrate social justice and patient advocacy into medical practice.
Formal and informal discussions throughout the month may cover a wide range of topics, including physician social responsibility, activism, racism, humanism, gender in medicine, health policy, mentorship, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), medical history, end-of-life care, suffering and compassion, creative arts in healing, sexuality, body image, violence, substance abuse, childbirth, religion, and self-care.
The HEART-IM experience is designed to inspire and refine each participant’s vision of what it means to be a healer, providing the motivation and tools to embody that vision in their future practice. The HEART-IM planning team is actively working on fundraising and logistical planning for this transformative experience. Contributions and suggestions are welcomed—those interested in supporting the program can reach out to the HEART-IM Student Leadership Team at [email protected].
Meet the Planning Committee
HEART-IM is powered by a group of students, faculty, and AMSA staff. Meet the leaders who make this elective a possibility.
Plus, the 2020 Planning Committee application is now open! Click here to apply.
Support HEART-IM
HEART-IM is an AMSA student project funded by student tuition and donations. If you would like to make a donation to support HEART-IM please visit the AMSA Donation Page and select “Make a Donation.” Thank you for your support!
HEART-IM TuitionRegistration to attend is $1000 for AMSA members and $1100 for non-members. This covers all major expenses for the month, including housing, meals, snacks, lectures, evening on-site activities, and local transportation for official activities. Students pay their own way to the designated airport, and transportation is provided from there. Some weekends will be free, with optional scheduled activities each weekend. Additional tuition fees will be paid directly to the University of New Mexico.
HEART-IM Information
- Description of HEART-IM Clerkship
- HEART-IM Planners & Faculty
- Past Participant Testimony
- HEART PowerPoint Presentation
- HEART Hippocratic Oath
Cancellation Policy
All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing via email to [email protected] no later than January 1, 2019, for consideration. Cancellations made over the phone will not be accepted. After this date, refunds will not be issued. Partial refunds—equal to the registration fee minus a 10% processing charge—may be considered only if AMSA is able to fill the vacated spot. If you wish to transfer your registration to another participant, please email [email protected] to facilitate the process.
If AMSA cancels or reschedules an event for any reason, all registered participants will have the option to receive a full refund or apply their registration fee toward a future HEART-IM event. Refunds will be processed within 10–14 business days. AMSA is not responsible for any additional expenses, including transportation (airfare, train, taxi, etc.), lodging, or other costs incurred by attendees.
Waiver of Liability
By attending and participating in this program or event, you assume all associated risks, including those related to on-site and off-site activities. By registering, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless AMSA, its governing bodies, officers, and employees from any loss, damage, or liability arising from your participation in this event.
Photo, Video, and Audio Release
AMSA designates official photographers and videographers for its meetings and events. Any photos, videos, or audio recordings taken during the event may be used in future AMSA marketing, publicity, promotions, advertising, and training materials. By registering, you consent to AMSA’s use of these materials, which may include your likeness, in all media formats worldwide, without compensation.
Information Release
By registering for this event, you acknowledge that your email address may be shared with AMSA’s Exhibitors and Sponsors for this event. However, emails will be limited to communications regarding the event and will only be sent during the period leading up to it.
