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Elmira College students in the health and natural sciences can now go far beyond the textbook images of the human body and, with the touch of their fingers, perform clinical simulations that would otherwise be out of reach. The new Anatomage Table, a 3D touch display large enough for nearly a dozen people to stand around, gives a life-size and high-definition view of the organs, muscles, veins, arteries, and bones of a real-life person.
"The Anatomage Table is essential for several courses in our Nursing program, starting with anatomy and physiology in the first year,” explained Dr. Milissa Volino, EC Director of Nurse Education and Associate Professor of Nurse Education. “Additionally, its software enhances case studies in critical care, obstetrics, and pediatrics. These simulation opportunities offer our students cutting-edge experiences that facilitate their transition to practice and enable them to deliver exceptional evidence-based care."
"The Anatomage Table has applications in many of our Science programs, including Forensic Science, because it provides visualizations and examples that students would not have access to otherwise," echoed Dr. Corey Stilts, EC Chair of Mathematics and Natural Sciences and Associate Professor of Chemistry.
Previously, students at EC and in the local area traveled up to 200 miles round trip for similar training at partner universities. Now, in addition to its own students, Elmira College will become a location for area colleges like the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM), to access the training tool.
Prof. Suellen Dragon, EC Lecturer in Biology, has already begun to incorporate the new tool into her coursework.
“The Anatomage Table is incorporated into my coursework as an investigative tool allowing students to explore virtual dissections to learn about the relationship between anatomy and physiological functions,” she said. “The Table also serves as a platform for case studies, lab practicals, and group activities, where students learn through hands-on, real-world examples."
EC purchased the unique training tool thanks to a $52,482 grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission and a matching gift from alumna Janet Frankovsky ’58, who dedicated her career to teaching and working as a school nurse in the Vestal, New York School District. Frankovsky has left a lasting legacy at EC through her contributions to the Health Sciences and Nursing programs. The Clinical Enrichment Proficiency Lab in Cowles is named in her honor, and she graciously funded the purchase of a pediatric simulation mannequin, "Andy," named in honor of her late husband.
“Janet’s support has been instrumental in shaping the future of healthcare education at Elmira College, and we thank her for her incredible generosity, including her help in acquiring the Anatomage Table,” said Dr. Charles Lindsay, Elmira College President.
In funding the grant, the Appalachian Regional Commission noted that the Anatomage Table can help improve the economic trajectory of students from high-poverty areas who may not typically have the opportunity to be exposed to high-level training otherwise.
“A student’s zip code should not define their destiny,” said ARC Federal Co-Chair Gayle Manchin. “Bringing cutting-edge medical simulation tools into Appalachia’s educational institutions is critical to preparing the next generation of skilled medical professionals. ARC is a proud partner in providing funding for Elmira College’s Anatomage Table, which will help students pursue in-demand medical careers to tackle the region’s most pressing health challenges.”
During a recent ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Table, Lindsay and other EC representatives debuted the Anatomage Table to donors and stakeholders.
“We are grateful to everyone who played a role in helping us secure the Anatomage Table,” said Lindsay during the event. “The training students in the region will receive thanks to this new equipment will expand and strengthen healthcare and science education. It will ultimately assist students in finding jobs and advancing along exciting career pathways.”