Landscape Analysis of Global Health Tracks in United States Pediatric Residencies: Moving Toward Standards.
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
8-2018
Identifier
DOI: 10.1016/j.acap.2018.03.009
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The number of pediatric Global Health (GH) tracks has more than doubled in less than 10 years. The goal of this study was to describe the characteristics of the pediatric GH tracks to identify commonalities and differences in track structure, funding, and education. In addition, we also identified demographic, institutional, and residency-related factors that were significantly associated with educational offerings and logistical challenges.
METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was electronically administered to pediatric residency programs with GH tracks. Statistical analyses included frequencies to describe GH track characteristics. Fisher's exact tests were used to identify bivariate associations between track structure and funding with educational offerings and logistical challenges.
RESULTS: Leaders of 32 pediatric GH tracks (67%) completed the survey. The majority of GH tracks were completed within the 3 years of residency (94%) and identified a GH track director (100%); however, tracks varied in size, enrollment methods, domestic and international partnerships, funding, and evaluations. Dedicated faculty time and GH track budget amounts were associated with more robust infrastructure pertaining to resident international electives, including funding and mentorship. Many tracks did not meet American Academy of Pediatrics recommended standards for clinical international rotations.
CONCLUSIONS: Despite the presence of multiple similarities among pediatric GH tracks, there are large variations in track structure, education, and funding. The results from this study support the proposal of a formal definition and minimum standards for a GH track, which may provide a framework for quality, consistency, and comparison of GH tracks.
Journal Title
Acad Pediatr
Volume
18
Issue
6
First Page
705
Last Page
713
MeSH Keywords
Cross-Sectional Studies; Education, Medical, Graduate; Global Health; Humans; Internship and Residency; Pediatrics; Surveys and Questionnaires; United States
Keywords
global health; international health; pediatric residency
Recommended Citation
Watts J, Russ C, St Clair NE, Uwemedimo OT. Landscape Analysis of Global Health Tracks in United States Pediatric Residencies: Moving Toward Standards. Acad Pediatr. 2018;18(6):705-713. doi:10.1016/j.acap.2018.03.009
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