The newest class of student doctors at the Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine (ICOM) took their first steps toward becoming physicians during the College’s seventh annual White Coat Ceremony on July 26.

In the presence of family, friends, faculty and staff, each of the 162 student physicians were welcomed into the medical community and “cloaked” with their first white coats.

During the ceremony, Dr. Kevin Wilson, Dean and Chief Academic Officer of ICOM, encouraged the student physicians to be the strongest advocates for their future patients. He also reminded them of what the symbolic white coat represents.

“You will be given a great gift — the ability to have close, caring relationships with patients and families, as they trust your judgment,” Dean Wilson said. “Honor that gift by putting your patients’ needs above all others.”

ICOM Associate Dean of Osteopathic Integration, Dr. Sarah Davis, led the Class of 2028 in reciting the Osteopathic Oath, which is again sworn during the traditional doctoral hooding ceremony four years hence.

Charles M. Davis, DO, Chief of Medicine at the Boise VA Hospital, provided the keynote address. Dr. Davis advised the Class of 2028 to be careful, be caring, and to prioritize their self-care. He also spoke about the importance of focusing on caring for their future patients, bringing the humanity of medicine to life.

“Caring for and about our patients helps us to understand their circumstances, their fears, their hopes, and their dreams,” Dr. Davis said. “And all of this informs how we treat their medical conditions. In many ways, compassion and empathy are as important to the healing process as medication and surgery.”

The physician’s white coat has been part of the profession since the 19th century. The concept originated from the operating room’s white coat, and has served as a visual symbol of the profession that stands for the need to balance excellence in science with compassionate caring for the patient.