This week, AMSA had the pleasure of hosting Dr. Ho-A-Shoo, a child and adolescent psychiatrist from Loma Linda University Health (LLUH), at our Week 4 General Meeting. Dr. Ho-A-Shoo shared invaluable insights into the field of psychiatry, specifically focusing on the challenges and rewards of working with young patients. Members learned about Dr. Ho-A-Shoo's path through medical school, his experience in various clerkship rotations, and his eventual decision to specialize in child and adolescent psychiatry.
Dr. Ho-A-Shoo highlighted the importance of understanding mental health as part of holistic patient care, emphasizing how early intervention can make a significant difference in the lives of children and adolescents. He also shared personal stories from his practice, which shed light on the unique aspects of working with younger patients, including building trust, addressing family dynamics, and navigating the mental health system. Dr. Ho-A-Shoo discussed the barriers to care that many families face, particularly in underserved areas like the Inland Empire, where access to mental health resources remains limited.
Members engaged in a Q&A session where Dr. Ho-A-Shoo offered advice on exploring psychiatry as a career, the value of shadowing different specialties during undergrad, and ways to advocate for mental health access. He also provided practical tips for pre-med students, encouraging them to seek mentorship and remain open to learning from various fields.
This meeting was an eye-opening experience for AMSA members, inspiring many to consider the importance of mental health in their future medical practices. We extend our gratitude to Dr. Ho-A-Shoo for sharing his expertise and passion for child and adolescent psychiatry.
Looking forward to seeing everyone at our next event and thank you for making this week’s meeting a great success!
Comments