Objective:

To quantitatively and qualitatively assess a pilot Neurology and Neurosurgery Pathways Program for Minoritized Undergraduate Students

Background:

11% of Neurologists identify as underrepresented minorities (URM). Less than 4% of US neurologists and neurosurgeons identify as Black compared to ~12% of the US population. Early exposure to neurosciences may help balance workforce diversity to reflect the greater US population by addressing structural barriers to medical school, lack of role models, access to mentorship, and limited knowledge of neurosciences.

Design/Methods:

In a collaboration between Brown University Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Medical School and University of Rhode Island, three undergraduate URM students were selected for 2023 CEINN (Clinical Experiences in Neurology and Neurosurgery) and REINN (Research Experiences in Neurology/Neurosurgery). Curricula included clinical shadowing, networking opportunities, CPR training, research mentor identification and research proposal development, career development and wellness workshops. Pre/post surveys were conducted for comfort, satisfaction and confidence for the clinical experience. Responses were reported in Likert scale. Open-ended survey responses were analyzed for thematic analysis.

Results:

After completion of the clinical experience, there was a percent increase in reported perception of satisfaction in a career in neurosciences (25%), accessibility to a career in neurology (20%) and neurosurgery (53.8%), confidence in explaining medical settings to others (37.6%) and understanding the medical school pathway (20%). Themes that emerged included expansion of network, relationship building with mentors, better understanding of pathways to research and medicine. There were no negative responses and desire for a longer clinical experience was a common theme. Students are currently undergoing research experience and will be followed longitudinally with quarterly mentorship meetings.

Conclusions:

Pathways programs improve awareness and access of career pathways in neurosciences by providing early exposure and mentor relationships. CEINN and REINN will be expanded in future years and graduates will be followed longitudinally.