Innovative Approaches in Medical Student Training: A Pilot Study of the Supporting Tobacco-Related ONGoing Education and Research (STRONGER) Scholar Program.

OBJECTIVES

Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable disease and death, disproportionately affecting marginalized groups. Addressing these disparities requires a workforce skilled in tobacco addiction research and intervention. The STRONGER Scholar Program trains medical students in tobacco dependence research and treatment and its intersection with health equity to meet workforce needs.

METHODS

Medical students (n = 7; national catchment) participated in the 10-week program. Scholars developed tobacco-related research projects with a faculty mentor and participated in interdisciplinary programming, including tobacco treatment specialist training, sessions on linking research knowledge to clinical practice, and a health promotion campaign masterclass. Mixed methods were used for program evaluation of this first scholar cohort.

RESULTS

Scholars showed gains in all targeted constructs and reported high satisfaction with programming, strongly agreeing that it advanced understanding of how their research connected with clinical practice. The health promotion campaign masterclass was lauded, among other innovative program components. Qualitative findings supported quantitative results.

CONCLUSIONS

This pilot study of the STRONGER Scholar Program showed promise in preparing the future physician-scientist workforce to address patients' tobacco use through research-informed practice and yielded information for future improvement. Results and lessons learned can inform the design of other research education programs.