Breadcrumb
Pharmacy students connect with the Vietnamese community
Since 2007, Pacific’s Vietnamese Cancer Awareness, Research & Education Society (VN CARES) has drawn on a valuable resource — doctor of pharmacy students who speak fluent Vietnamese.
“As an undergraduate student I had the privilege of working with VN CARES as a Vietnamese translator at many of their health fairs,” said second-year co-chair Yvette Luong ’23. “Many of the patients I had the opportunity to help told me their stories and how difficult it was for them to access health care. These health fairs were the only way they could receive updates and check on their health.”
While language is an effective tool for reaching and serving the Vietnamese community, VN CARES is dedicated to promoting health for individuals of all ethnicities.
“As a committee we strive to serve and promote health to underserved community members as a whole,” said Luong.
VN CARES hosts annual health fairs in Stockton, Sacramento and San Jose. At the health fairs, students educate community members about anemia, breast cancer and cervical cancer. VN CARES collaborates with other outreach committees to offer health screening services, including bone mineral density, blood pressure, asthma, cholesterol and memory decline. In addition, influenza immunizations and COVID-19 vaccinations are offered. They also invite local vendors to offer their services, whether it be access to medical clinics or discounts at nearby medical supply stores.
“Many of the patients I had the opportunity to help told me their stories and how difficult it was for them to access health care. These health fairs were the only way they could receive updates and check on their health.”
April is National Minority Health Month and is a platform for bringing awareness to the lack of diversity, equity and inclusion within health care.
“Celebrating National Minority Health Month raises awareness toward the disparities experienced by numerous underserved minority populations,” said first-year co-chair Judy Tran ’24. “As racial and ethnic discrepancies continue to exist, it is important to commemorate those affected by these disparities.”
The student leaders describe VN CARES as a progressive committee comprised of passionate, hard-working future pharmacists.
“VN CARES is inclusive to all students, regardless of identity,” said second-year co-chair Nhi U. Bui ’23. “Another unique feature in VN CARES is that our members each have designated roles which they focus on. While the roles are defined, we continue to collaborate among one another to meet our common goals and purpose.”
