Program Introduction/Background

Early exposure to healthcare careers and the development of strategic programs that alter the educational pipeline are essential in providing the necessary knowledge and resources to foster a more inclusive and diverse medical community. Enhancing diversity and representation in the medical workforce necessitates intentional and focused efforts to improve the pathways and pipelines for underrepresented in medicine (UIM) applicants.

The Medical Scholars Program uses evidence-based guidelines for physician pathway programs to include the Asset Model that effectively enhances academic performance and increases the likelihood that UIM and other disadvantaged undergraduate students enroll in a health professions school.

The Office of Belonging and Inclusive Excellence (OBIE) recruits’ pre-health undergraduate students nationwide for the Students Training in Research Program (STIR), MCAT Preparation Program, and Health Careers Motivation Program. Rising seniors from Miami-Dade County Public Schools (MDCPS) are recruited to participate in the High School Careers in Medicine Program. These programs, held at the Miller School of Medicine in June-July, are promoted via email to college advisors and science instructors, with virtual informational sessions. Additionally, UMMSM in collaboration with MDCPS offers academic year pathway programs. The Future Docs Program for 6th-8th graders and the Health Career Collaborative Program for 10th-11th graders provides younger generations exposure to healthcare careers.

OBIE hires current University of Miami Miller School of Medicine medical students to serve as Teaching Assistants for each program. This provides program participants with an opportunity to receive mentorship throughout the program.
 

Lessons Learned

Our program prides itself on impressive outcomes: 100% of our students graduate from high school, with 100% applying to and attending college. Among our pre-med students, 60% are accepted into medical school, reflecting the strong foundation and support we provide.

Although we are proud of our outcomes, we do encounter challenges and limitations specifically in the annual assessment of a program participants journey to medical school. Connecting with students can be challenging due to a change in personal contact information.

OBIE continues to explore ways to stay engaged with program alumni. We are establishing an alumni network to encourage community engagement where participants can stay connected and update us on their journey.