A Novel Service-Oriented Professional Development Program for Research Assistants at an Academic Hospital: A...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Professional Development
• Health Care Administration

Background:

• Research assistants (RAs) are crucial for research and quality improvement projects in academic settings.
• RAs often view their roles as temporary, serving as stepping stones to graduate programs.
• Addressing the professional needs of RAs is vital for the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the Program for Research Assistant Development and Achievement (PRADA).
• To facilitate the development of key professional skills (leadership, teamwork, communication) in RAs.
• To demonstrate the low-cost benefits of a professional development program for RAs and encourage institutional adoption.

Main Methods:

• An anonymous, web-based satisfaction survey was administered to PRADA members in 2011.
• The survey evaluated demographics, participation levels, satisfaction with program offerings, and career trajectory.
• Data collection focused on assessing whether program goals were met.

Main Results:

• A 69.8% response rate was achieved.
• 79.0% of respondents aimed for medical or nonmedical graduate school within three years.
• Respondents reported increased sense of community (75.2%), job satisfaction (55.9%), and career guidance (53.8%).
• 85.6% would recommend PRADA to other RAs.

Conclusions:

• PRADA was well-received by research assistants, indicated by a high response rate and positive feedback.
• The program effectively supports RAs pursuing graduate education, aligning with their career aspirations.
• PRADA shows early success through institutional support and participation, suggesting potential for broader implementation and further impact assessment.