Abstract

Objective: In 2019, the Johns Hopkins Center for AIDS Research in collaboration with the Baltimore community developed Generation Tomorrow: Summer Health Disparity Scholars, a pipeline program focused on students underrepresented in health careers interested in HIV and/or hepatitis C health disparities. This program was established to diversify the workforce and promote cultural competence as a vehicle to decrease health and health care disparities in the United States. Pipeline programs of this nature are a major step toward achieving health equity.

Methods: Generation Tomorrow: Summer Health Disparity Scholars seeks to achieve its aims through a multipronged approach. This includes a comprehensive, cultural humility focused curriculum that students are taught by qualified faculty and community members. The students are also paired with a mentor to complete an independent research project. Our students work with a local community partner, Sisters Together and Reaching, Inc. to get hands on experience working with local populations by providing HIV and hepatitis C testing and counseling. Additionally, the program provides health careers advising throughout the school year for students pursuing graduate or medical school.

Results: The leadership team spoke with the students at the conclusion of the program and uncovered several themes. Through community work, it was clear that cultural competency requires robust understanding of the community and barriers faced. The students also highlighted that cultural humility and empathy are critical for informed care. Consistent mentorship, beyond just the summer, was also critical for expanding diversity and cultural competence in the workforce.

Conclusion: Community engagement is crucial to developing a conceptual framework for helping students understand population level healthcare disparities. Active, long term student mentorship is of utmost importance. Although outcomes will have to continue to be measured in years to come, we believe this program can help students overcome significant barriers and achieve their goals.