The community and medical education: organization and function of a board of concerned citizens

A Board of Concerned Citizens was organized in 1971 to facilitate the resolution of problems between the College of Medicne and Dentistry of New Jersey at Newark and the community in which it is located. The board has provided an orderly imput by consumers, representatives of community organizations and nonfaculty employees into decisions on policies and programs of the medical and dental schools. It has aided in the resolution of employee grievances and student problems, given support needed to assist the development of quality health care services, helped improve the climate for clinical research, and served as an intermediary between the community and college on issues of special concern to local residents. An opinion poll conducted 3 1/2 years after its organization shows c ontinued support by citizenry, nonfaculty employees, faculty, and students for a Board of Concerned Citizens. Experiences of the board indicate that investigations and recommendations of a properly organized and motivated group of community residents and leaders can provide an effective bridge between a community and a medical or dental school.