Presented By: Brandon Godinich, Texas Tech Health Science Center El Paso
Co-Authors: Jessica Chacon, Texas Tech Health Science Center El Paso
Gilberto Garcia, Texas Tech Health Science Center El Paso
Rivers Hock, Texas Tech Health Science Center El Paso
Nathan Holland, Texas Tech Health Science Center El Paso
Maria Land, Texas Tech Health Science Center El Paso
Mark Raynor, Texas Tech Health Science Center El Paso
Laura Renovato, Texas Tech Health Science Center El Paso

Purpose
This research focuses on the development and evaluation of an online elective course, "Medicine on the Border: Community Outreach and Challenges," designed for medical and health sciences students at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso. The research assesses the effectiveness of the online elective in increasing cultural sensitivity and understanding of community outreach programs. The two-week elective covers topics such as defining community-based research, identifying stakeholders, addressing the social determinants of health, and understanding the role of Community Health Workers.

Methods
This prospective post-test study utilizes existing data (pre-assessment) and a post-assessment Qualtrics anonymous survey to evaluate the elective. The survey, consisting of Likert-type scale items and open-ended questions, will gauge students' satisfaction, perceptions of benefits, and the overall impact of the online elective on their awareness of community-based research and outreach.

Results
The study's outcomes are poised to make a substantial contribution to the existing literature on virtual learning electives in medical education. Preliminary data analysis revealed that 75% of respondents aged 25 to 34 and identified as Hispanic or Latino. The cohort unanimously expressed either "Strongly Agree" or "Agree" on the elective's value in providing perspectives, understanding community-based research, stimulating critical thinking in program implementation, and addressing knowledge gaps. All students unanimously affirmed the course's objectives, encompassing distinctions between community engagement and community-based research and knowledge of community programs. This unequivocal endorsement underscores the course's efficacy in meeting its educational goals.

Conclusion
This research addresses a critical need to prepare future healthcare professionals for community engagement with increasing health disparities in Hispanic communities. The elective's development is grounded in principles of community-based participatory research, aiming to create a foundation for students to understand, contribute to, and lead community outreach initiatives. The study's goals encompass scholarly exploration, aligning with broader objectives in health disparities.