•  
  •  
 

Abstract

Introduction: Ophthalmology is one of the least diverse medical subspecialties. The Michigan Ophthalmology Pathway (MOP) Program was created at the University of Michigan Medical School in 2017 to promote diversity in ophthalmology through early exposure and longitudinal mentorship for medical students from underrepresented backgrounds (URiM). This innovative institution-level model aimed to increase URiM student interest in ophthalmology and help URiM students develop competitive residency applications. Methods: Each year, first-year medical students (M1) and residents (PGY2) were invited to apply to MOP. MOP mentees were matched one-to-one with an ophthalmology resident mentor whom they shadowed for six days in the clinic and the operating room. Additionally, medical students participated in educational and social events and received guidance and financial support to pursue research in ophthalmology. At the completion of the mentees’ M1 year, both students and residents were surveyed on their satisfaction with the program and changes in their skills and knowledge. The number of graduating MOP mentees who successfully matched at an ophthalmology residency program was also examined. Results: Over five years, 31 M1 mentees and 29 PGY-2 residents participated in MOP. Surveys were completed by 74.2% of mentees and 79.3% of mentors. Feedback regarding the program was nearly entirely positive: 95.7% of mentee respondents felt “very satisfied” or “satisfied” with MOP overall. Mentees agreed that MOP provided educational value (4.04/5 [1 being strongly disagree, 3 neutral, and 5 strongly agree]), increased their ophthalmology knowledge (4.48/5), and increased their interest in ophthalmology (4.04/5). Residents also found the program valuable: 81.8% of respondents would recommend MOP to others. Of the six graduated mentees, one applied and matched into ophthalmology residency while another intends to pursue neuro-ophthalmology. The remaining four mentees chose other medical specialties. Conclusion: The Michigan Ophthalmology Pathway Program successfully increased ophthalmology exposure, interest, and knowledge among URiM participants. Although only one of six graduated mentees pursued ophthalmology, six mentees currently in their third and fourth years of medical school are applying or planning to apply into ophthalmology. As MOP continues, additional student outcomes data will contribute to evaluating its impact.

Received Date

25 Aug 2023

Accepted Date

18 Sep 2024

Download

Share

COinS