Promoting health advocacy and policy change among students of color: The Health Disparities Summer Internship Program

Background: Communicating the benefits of effective health policy is emphasized through an exciting summer internship program for high school students of color. The Health Disparities Summer Internship Program (HDSIP) of the Brooklyn Health Disparities Center introduces students to a curriculum consisting of: awareness of health disparities, basic research skills, and community-based participatory research (CBPR) methods.  We describe the results of a survey that assessed the program’s impact on its participants.

Methodology:  A total of 57 students (70% Black) participated in the 4-week HDSIP within the years 2012, 2013 and 2014. Students attended lectures covering topics such as health disparities, health in America, immigrant health, and policy and advocacy. While working with community-based organizations, students gained hands-on experience related to issues discussed in class. Students completed and presented research projects and provided suggestions for health policy change.  Pre/post surveys were completed to assess the impact of the program.

Results: At baseline, 75% of students reported being interested in incorporating advocacy into their future careers; by the end of the program the percentage rose to 94% (p<0.05). After familiarizing students with CBPR and health advocacy, 81% of students planned to advocate for changes in their community; an increase from the initial 63% (p<0.05).

Conclusion: Introducing minority students to health professions can serve as a catalyst for lasting changes in health outcomes. The HDSIP has increased students’ awareness of social determinants of health and has fostered their interest in improving the health of minority populations.