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Virtual Ophthalmology Rotation for Visiting Medical Students: An Opportunity to Enhance Diversity in the Workforce.
Salman J Yousuf1, Nguyen S Nguyen2, Monika Farhangi Oskuei1
1Department of Ophthalmology, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia.
Journal of Academic Ophthalmology (2017)
|May 13, 2024
Summary
This virtual ophthalmology rotation successfully attracted under-represented in medicine (URM) students and improved their knowledge and diagnostic skills. The program reduced barriers to specialty training, enhancing diversity in ophthalmology.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Ophthalmology
- Health Equity
Background:
- Virtual rotations can increase medical students' exposure to ophthalmology.
- Traditional in-person rotations present financial and scheduling barriers.
- Attracting under-represented in medicine (URM) students to ophthalmology is a key goal.
Purpose of the Study:
- To pilot a virtual ophthalmology rotation for medical students.
- To assess the program's effectiveness in knowledge transfer and skill development.
- To evaluate its potential for attracting URM students to ophthalmology.
Main Methods:
- A virtual rotation with live lectures, case discussions, and self-study was implemented.
- Participants completed pre- and post-rotation surveys and tests.
- Data collected included learner background, interest in ophthalmology, and rotation feedback.
Main Results:
- Eleven learners participated, with 36% identifying as URM students.
- Exam scores significantly improved from 60% to 79% (p < 0.01).
- Participants reported increased knowledge, improved diagnostic skills, and valuable residency application support.
Conclusions:
- The virtual rotation effectively increased ophthalmology knowledge and skills.
- It successfully attracted a significant proportion of URM students.
- Virtual rotations can reduce barriers, promoting diversity and inclusion in ophthalmology.
