A society has been founded to mentor and assist the next generation of Bermudian doctors.

The Bermuda Medical Students' Society (BMSS) will counsel students through their training and then assist in job placements.

It is an initiative by young Bermudians in the profession, but will be supported by the Bermuda Hospitals Board (BHB).

Dr. Donald Thomas, Chief of Staff, said yesterday: "We certainly look forward to seeing the BMSS become a great resource for young Bermudians that encourages and supports them to become our next generation of physicians."

The society aims to: create a mentoring programme; encourage networking; provide information on scholarships; establish overseas contacts for residencies, fellowships and electives; and keep overseas students up-to-date with the latest Bermudian health news and issues.

Society chair is Alisha Gabriel, a third year medical student at The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland.

Vice chair is Katura Horton-Perinchief, who has a Masters degree in Public Health and runs the Tumour Registry in Bermuda.

Attiya Talbot, a third year medical student at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, is the membership chair.

Shammah Williams, a third year medical student at Loma Linda University in California, US, and Janaya Raynor, a Ross University student based in the Bahamas, are Executive Board members.

In addition, Dr. Arlene Basden, director of KEMH's Hospitalist Programme, and Dr. Chantelle Simmons, a MWI consultant psychiatrist, will act as advisors to the Executive Board.

Ms Gabriel said: "What BMSS wants to do is assist all Bermudian medical students and help them network and find mentors. Becoming a physician is a long and challenging career path and I believe there is a huge benefit for medical students to have a representative body to turn to for advice, support and opportunities.

"First, however, we need students to contact us so that we can build a comprehensive membership listing."

l Any medical students interested in joining or becoming part of the Board should email: bermymss@gmail.com. Membership is free.