The Influence of a Cardiovascular Research Initiative on Development of Medical Students: A Focus On Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

4-1-2025

Publication Title

Journal of the American College of Cardiology

Abstract

Background: Initiated in 2021, the ACC Medical Student Leadership Group (MSLG) Cardiovascular Research Initiative (CVRI) is a student-led research group that aims to offer accessible research opportunities to medical students worldwide, irrespective of experience or background. To date, the CVRI has involved over 100 diverse medical students in publishing 16 review articles. This survey evaluated the effectiveness of CVRI on professional development, its accountability on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and its role in addressing disparities in research opportunities.

Methods: A survey was created consisting of demographic information, prior research experience, and questions regarding the impact of the CVRI on professional development and DEI using a Likert-type scale, scored from 1 to 5. The survey was distributed electronically to 200 past and current CVRI contributors. Average scores were calculated from survey responses.

Results: There were a total of 40 survey responses. Respondents were equally male and female (47.5% each), with 2.5% LGBTQ+, and 2.5% chose not to disclose. Respondents were located across five continents, most from North America (42.5%) and Europe (30%). Participants were primarily Caucasian or Asian (32.5% and 30%, respectively), with 15% Hispanic, and 10% black or African-American. Regarding DEI, 15% reported disparities in research opportunities outside the CVRI, and 10% reported disparities in opportunities within the CVRI. An average score of 4.03 was reported regarding the extent of CVRI leadershipʼs accountability in DEI efforts, and a score of 4.48 regarding the importance of DEI initiatives in medical research. 52.5% of participants reported prior participation in DEI training, with 81.6% agreeing that CVRI should provide such training prior to inclusion. Regarding professional development, the average score for research knowledge was 2.9 before enrollment in CVRI and 3.64 after involvement.

Conclusion: The CVRI is providing equitable research opportunities to medical students worldwide. While the CVRI may address disparities in research opportunities, it may benefit from more DEI training for its participants.

Volume

85

Issue

12

First Page

2765

Comments

ACC 2025, March 29-31, 2025, Chicago, IL.

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS