Immigrant and Refugee Health Curricula in US-Based Medical Training: A Scoping Review to Inform Integration Into...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Public Health
• Immigrant Health

Background:

• The US foreign-born population is growing, yet medical education in immigrant and refugee health (IRH) is insufficient.
• Limited opportunities exist for training medical professionals in the unique health needs of immigrant and refugee populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize existing immigrant and refugee health (IRH) curricula.
• To provide recommendations for integrating IRH education into pediatric residency programs.

Main Methods:

• A literature review was conducted on published IRH curricula for US medical trainees.
• Articles describing the design, implementation, or assessment of IRH curricula were analyzed.

Main Results:

• 37 unique IRH curricula were identified across 21 institutions, with only three integrated into pediatric residency programs.
• Common topics included cultural humility, interpreter services, and social determinants of health.
• Training formats varied, including electives, rotations, and continuity clinics.

Conclusions:

• IRH curricula enhance clinical skills, advocacy, and community partnerships for immigrant populations.
• Pediatric residency programs should integrate IRH by aligning with learning priorities, hiring expert faculty, and collaborating with community organizations.
• Further research is needed to establish standardized competencies and assessment tools for IRH education.