Implementation of a Medical Education Service Learning Program Centred on International Agricultural Workers (IAWs) in Southwestern Ontario

Background International Agricultural Workers (IAWs) are vital to Canadian agriculture but face significant language and cultural barriers. Windsor-Essex is uniquely situated to support programs serving IAWs, as over 50% of Canada’s IAW population resides in this region. An English language support program was established with the University of Windsor (UoW) and Schulich School of Medicine (SsoM) to address barriers exacerbating healthcare challenges. Objectives This work seeks to report on the program’s implementation and protocols and assess effectiveness in enhancing language proficiency, community integration, and medical student engagement with IAWs. Proposed Methods IAWs were recruited from the South Essex Community Council (SECC), and English partners from UoW and SSoM. Following an oral presentation outlining the program, 18 IAWs and 15 medical students enrolled. Participants were paired based on availability and language proficiency. Partners were given a weekly slide deck that guided conversations aligned with IAWs’ language lessons. Weekly reflections, monthly meetings, surveys and interviews will be conducted with medical student volunteers to evaluate their experiences and program impact. Future Directions Preliminary survey and interview results indicate positive outcomes for both IAWs and participating medical students. IAWs reported improved English proficiency and a greater sense of community inclusion. Medical students demonstrated increased cultural awareness and understanding of challenges faced by IAWs, fostering a deeper commitment to addressing inequities in healthcare. This work underscores the potential of a language support program to enhance cultural competency among future healthcare professionals while improving quality of life and access to resources for IAWs.