Obstetrics and Gynecology Health Education Workshops Role in Improving Patient Knowledge Outcomes at Coachella Valley Free Clinic [ID 1677]

INTRODUCTION: This study evaluates the effect of a women’s health education workshop series aimed at improving health literacy among uninsured, underinsured, and underserved women aged 7–85 at the Coachella Valley Free Clinic. Given the clinic’s focus on providing primary care services and screenings, this initiative addresses critical gaps in knowledge related to obstetrics and gynecology (ob-gyn) topics, particularly within Indigenous, undocumented, and low-income Spanish-speaking communities. METHODS: A series of medical student-led workshops covered topics such as puberty, menopause, cervical cancer screenings, prenatal care, and breast cancer. Pre-assessment and post-assessment knowledge surveys were administered to participants before and after each session, allowing for quantitative measurement of learning outcomes. RESULTS: Data collection revealed significant improvements in participants’ understanding of key ob-gyn topics, with average post-assessment scores increasing compared to pre-assessment scores. Participants expressed greater confidence in managing their health and accessing necessary screenings. CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS: This project demonstrates the effectiveness of community-based health education in promoting health literacy and equity in underserved populations. The findings suggest that targeted educational interventions can significantly enhance knowledge and empowerment among women, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes. Future research should explore the long-term effects of such programs on health behaviors and outcomes, as well as strategies for expanding access to similar educational initiatives in diverse community settings.