Evaluating the Impact of the Dermatology Medical Literacy Program on Undergraduate Trainee Outcomes
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Keywords
DMLA, education, Social Determinants of Health, dermatology
Abstract
Introduction: Dermatology is a complex specialty, and early education and exposure can meaningfully contribute to generating interest and enhancing long-term involvement in the specialty. The Dermatology Medical Literacy Advocacy (DMLA) program at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center was designed to broaden the undergraduate students' base of knowledge, skills, and exposure to health disparities of dermatology.
Methods: The program included sixteen bi-weekly 2-hour lectures, participatory workshops, and exposure to the community. The quality of the program was assessed by the prospective study through the use of pre- and post-surveys.
Results: Results indicated substantial improvements in students' knowledge of dermatology, recognition of health disparities, and ease with dermatologic competencies. Ease with community outreach also improved slightly, yet not to the point of a statistically significant factor.
Conclusions: The DMLA program successfully improved prime areas of dermatology education. Future iterations will address additional community involvement via direct activity, the area where most deficit occurred.
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