Special Olympics Wisconsin was proud to partner with the Medical College of Wisconsin – Central Wisconsin campus to deliver an Inclusive Health Training for 24 first-year medical students, helping prepare the next generation of physicians to provide respectful, effective care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
The three-part training offered students a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience that combined classroom education, athlete voices, and real-world clinical practice.
The training began with an Inclusive Health Training presentation led by Dr. Michael Clark, Special Olympics Wisconsin MedFest Clinical Director and an Emergency Medicine Physician. Dr. Clark shared critical insights into the health disparities experienced by people with IDD, the barriers this population often faces in accessing quality healthcare, and practical strategies medical professionals can use to better serve individuals with IDD in clinical settings.
Students then actively listened to an Athlete Panel, where Special Olympics Wisconsin athletes shared their personal healthcare experiences and perspectives. Athletes Tyler Wigington (Stevens Point), Bee Young, Amanda Barmore, and Carolyn Walker (Wausau Metro Adults) spoke candidly about how they like to be treated at the doctor’s office, challenges they have encountered, and advice for future physicians on delivering compassionate, patient-centered care. This meaningful dialogue allowed students to hear directly from individuals with IDD and better understand the impact of inclusive healthcare practices.
The final portion of the training involved standardized patient experiences. The athletes and medical students broke into four small-group sessions alongside faculty members to simulate clinical appointments. During these mock visits, students practiced communication, patient engagement, and clinical skills while working directly with individuals with IDD, gaining valuable hands-on experience in a supportive learning environment.
The impact of the training extended beyond the classroom. During Special Olympics Wisconsin MedFest events, 11 of the first-year medical students volunteered and were able to apply what they learned in real-world settings. Together, they helped complete 46 sports physicals for Special Olympics Wisconsin athletes, reinforcing the importance of inclusive care while supporting athletes’ ability to participate safely in sports.
“Through partnerships like this, Special Olympics Wisconsin continues to advance inclusive health education and reduce health disparities for people with IDD,” said Kayla Loeber, Inclusive Health Manager. “In addition we are empowering future healthcare providers with the knowledge, skills, and empathy needed to deliver high-quality care for all.”