From pilot study to practice: Integrating medical students into COVID-19 contact tracing in a hospital setting

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Medical Education
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Contact tracing is vital for controlling infectious disease transmission, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Inpatient settings present unique challenges for effective contact tracing.
• Gaps in engagement with existing tracing services were identified, necessitating novel approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of an Inpatient Contact Tracing Team (IPCT) involving medical students.
• To assess the role of medical students in improving inpatient contact tracing and public health initiatives.
• To understand demographic patterns influencing vaccination hesitancy and tailor educational outreach.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study was conducted from September to November 2021, involving 305 inpatients with COVID-19.
• Medical students were integrated into an Inpatient Contact Tracing Team (IPCT).
• Students assisted with contact tracing and conducted community-based vaccination education initiatives.

Main Results:

• The IPCT, with medical student involvement, demonstrated benefits for public health and medical education.
• Demographic analysis identified key patterns influencing vaccine uptake, guiding targeted educational strategies.
• Medical students gained practical experience in public health and clinical settings.

Conclusions:

• Involving medical students in inpatient contact tracing is a valuable strategy for public health and medical training.
• Adaptable medical education models are crucial for responding to global health crises like COVID-19.
• Targeted community engagement and education, informed by demographic data, can address vaccination barriers.