While working on a farm in rural Box Elder County, Steven Lore had sudden insight into his future career.
"I started looking around and realized I was more than 100 miles from a doctor and farther than that from a really competent hospital."I thought, `Hey, I could fill a niche here.' As I got closer to medical school, the idea didn't go away. My dream is still alive."
Lore, a third-year student at the University of Utah School of Medicine, was recently recognized by a national foundation that rewards outstanding medical students who have committed to enter the specialty of family practice.
Each year, the Nicholas Pisacano, M.D., Memorial Foundation Inc. recognizes 10 medical students nationwide.
The recognition carries a $50,000 scholarship, awarded over five years. The gift is intended to help young physicians retire medical school-related debt.
Dr. Michael Magill, professor and chairman of the Department of Family and Preventative Medicine, said, "The School of Medicine is honored to have one of its students receive this prestigious and highly competitive award."
Lore, 29, earned an associate degree at Weber State University, a bachelor's degree in chemistry from Brigham Young University and a master's degree in physical chemistry from the U.
Before being admitted to medical school, Lore worked for an explosives manufacturer.
He recently was awarded the Western Student Medical Research Committee "Excellence in Research" award for 1997.
Lore is deeply involved in computer technology at the medical school, which he considers a vital link for family practitioners in remote areas.
"Technology gives you the ability to act as if you're in a hospital in an academic center," Lore said.
The foundation is named after the founder and first executive director of the American Board of Family Practice. Pisacano is recognized as a worldwide leader in the effort to recognize family practice as a speciality.
Pisacano scholars are invited to participate in educational and leadership development programs to enhance their skills.
Lore said he was deeply honored by the award. He is the second U. medical student to receive the honor.
"Initially it was something of a shock and surprise, then a great deal of relief. We have three children, a fourth on the way, and I'm already $50,000 in debt," Lore said.
After his residency, Lore plans to return to Box Elder County to establish a family practice.
"That's my intention right now. It will depend on the rest of my family. That kind of decision is determined more by the spouse's wishes than the physician's," Lore said, softly laughing.