Student-to-Student: A Novel Approach to Community Outreach

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Community Health
• Public Health Initiatives

Background:

• The United States faces a critical physician shortage, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations.
• Traditional community outreach methods aim to provide resources and education.
• Inspiring the next generation of healthcare professionals is crucial for addressing future healthcare needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the "Student-to-Student" organization, a novel community outreach program.
• To provide a framework for other institutions to implement similar medical student-led outreach initiatives.
• To highlight the benefits of this program for both pre-medical students and medical students.

Main Methods:

• The "Student-to-Student" organization engages high school, community college, and undergraduate students.
• Participants visit a medical college to explore anatomy and interact with medical students.
• Medical students gain experience in public speaking, leadership, and professional identity development.

Main Results:

• The program has operated continuously since 1987, except for one year during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• It conducts over 80 tours annually, reaching thousands of students.
• Medical students enhance their residency applications through leadership and outreach experience.

Conclusions:

• The "Student-to-Student" program serves as an effective model for community outreach and medical student development.
• This initiative helps inspire future physicians and addresses the growing physician shortage.
• Implementing similar programs can foster a pipeline of future healthcare professionals.