Cincinnati Children's Hospital
Objective
The pediatric rheumatology workforce shortage is worsening as few medical graduates pursue this subspecialty. The root cause remains unclear, but research suggests the lack of early exposure may contribute. We created DEEEPR (Dedicated Early Exposure Elective in Pediatric Rheumatology) and assessed the impact of early exposure on medical student interest in pediatric rheumatology. We hypothesized DEEEPR would generate interest in pursuing pediatric rheumatology.
Methods
DEEEPR, designed via adult learning-theories, was introduced in 2016 and included a weeklong experience for third-year medical students and 2- or 4-week long experiences for fourth-year medical students. A prospective, survey-based educational study was conducted in 2018-2019 to evaluate the impact of DEEEPR on career discernment.
Results
In the four years following the implementation of DEEEPR, the number of third-year medical students rotating on pediatric rheumatology ranged from 24-43 students. This was a notable increase from 8 students the year prior to DEEEPR implementation. The number of fourth-year medical students rotating in pediatric rheumatology did not change as a result of DEEEPR.
Following elective participation, 38/59 (60%) of all students indicated they had increased interest in pursuing pediatric rheumatology. On a follow up survey assessing long-term impact of the curriculum, 13/34 (38%) participated, and none of the 13 indicated they still wanted to pursue pediatric rheumatology.
Conclusion:
DEEEPR was successful in increasing the number of third-year medical students exposed to pediatric rheumatology and increased initial interest in a career in pediatric rheumatology, although this interest was not maintained long-term.
