Health Science Academy at Arthur Ashe Institute for Urban Health: OST Model to Prepare the Next Generation of Minority Public Health Practitioners

Background: A 2006 HRSA review of 55 studies revealed that minority healthcare professionals tend to practice in underserved communities and have better rapport with their minority patients, improving health outcomes. Despite these documented benefits, the percentage of minority practitioners has remained stagnant since the first medical schools were desegregated in 1909. Housed in multi-ethnic Brooklyn's only academic medical center, the Health Science Academy (HSA), draws on SUNY Downstate's resources to offer an OST science enrichment program for minority high school students based on an innovative three-year physiology and anatomy curriculum.

Methods: Focusing on health disparities and their social determinants, the curriculum includes methods in community participatory research, laboratory visits, dissections, strategies for academic success and exposure to six body systems using guest speakers, simulations, and patient oriented problem solving. Clinical healthcare students and public health professionals serve as faculty and role models. Instructors are trained to engage students, facilitating reflection and collaborative learning. The core program is augmented with a middle school career exploration program and summer internships providing more in-depth training in research methodology and health disparities. Students conduct research projects at local Community-base organizations and present their findings and recommendations to local policy makers.

Results: Most Health Science Academy graduates go on to college, with almost 70% crediting the Academy in influencing their career aspirations. A survey of participants indicated students' increased interest in improving the health of their families and neighborhoods.