Longitudinal Continuity Learning Experiences and Primary Care Career Interest: Outcomes from an Innovative Medical...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Primary Care Physician Training

Background:

• Negative perceptions of primary care careers among US medical students are influenced by hidden curriculum and institutional culture.
• Longitudinal Integrated Clerkships (LICs) show potential in improving student-preceptor relationships and empathy, counteracting negative trends.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the Student Continuity of Practice Experience (SCOPE) program.
• To evaluate the program's outcomes using residency match data, course evaluations, and student grades.

Main Methods:

• Undergraduate medical students participated in a longitudinal curriculum focused on primary care physician skills.
• Students attended continuity clinics, built patient panels, and received regular faculty mentorship and feedback.

Main Results:

• SCOPE participants achieved high primary care residency match rates.
• Students demonstrated patient continuity rates similar to interns, with increased primary care interest from years one to three.

Conclusions:

• The SCOPE program effectively promotes and sustains interest in primary care careers among medical students.
• The SCOPE model shows promise for replication at other academic institutions.