Introduction/Background

Career and Technical Education (CTE) equips students with both academic and practical skills, preparing them for success in the workforce or further education. Rhode Island's CTE programs offer a range of opportunities, including career exploration in healthcare, enhanced educational experiences through hands-on learning that complements traditional coursework, workforce development through skills and certifications relevant to healthcare professions, and networking opportunities with healthcare professionals and potential mentors through partnerships with medical schools. These partnerships play a key role in promoting healthcare careers to high school students.

The Importance of the Topic or Problem

A significant challenge to achieving health equity is the compounding effect of health disparities and the lack of diversity within the healthcare workforce. When the workforce doesn't reflect the communities it serves, communication barriers and cultural insensitivity can arise, leading to poorer patient experiences and health outcomes. Research demonstrates that patients tend to feel more comfortable and trusting with healthcare professionals who share their background. Addressing these issues is crucial for achieving health equity.

Rationale for the Panel

This panel will share experiences in developing, running, and participating in pathways programs created through a partnership between a local medical school, two high schools from two different school districts, and the communities they serve. The panelists will share valuable lessons learned for other schools interested in collaborating with professional schools on similar pathways programs.

Challenges/Concerns/Gaps in the Field Being Addressed

The panel will address ways to enhance and develop pathways programs by fostering partnerships between school districts and health professional schools.