Lucas Nesladek was a dual degree student at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, working towards a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies and a Master of Public Health (MSPAS/MPH) degree when he became a Region IV PHTC Pathways to Practice Scholar. During the summer of 2019, Lucas worked with The Firehouse Shelter, whose mission is to provide homeless men, ages 18 and older, in the Birmingham area a nurturing and caring environment offering supportive services that break the cycle of homelessness and empower individuals to achieve their highest potential.
In his field placement application Lucas explained, “My passion for addressing health disparities affecting medically underserved populations aligns perfectly with the mission of this organization. It is my goal during this internship to put my background and training into practice by addressing a key issue affecting the health of this population — communicable diseases.” His original vision for the field placement was laser-sharp; he intended to hold a flu shot clinic for Firehouse clients.
But, as Lucas learned, plans change, and the flu shot clinic concept evolved into a mini health fair that offered a slate of services, including screenings for HIV, hepatitis C, and tuberculosis as well as inoculations for influenza and hepatitis A. Lucas also learned that obtaining a vaccine for distribution is much more complex than he initially thought. His persistent problem solving led to a creative solution that involved partnerships with Walgreens Pharmacy, Jefferson County Department of Health, and Birmingham AIDS Outreach.
At the close of his placement, Lucas enthusiastically reported that the Firehouse Shelter Community Health Fair was a huge success and that the fair provided services to 105 participants. His field placement mentor, Firehouse Shelter Assistant Director Valencia Green, (pictured here with Lucas) agreed. She commended, “Lucas, thank you for your service to our community! It has been a pleasure assisting you during your internship. I look forward to seeing what you and your colleagues come up with next. Congratulations on a successful community-based health fair!”
