Technology Literacy in Undergraduate Medical Education: Review and Survey of the US Medical School Innovation and Technology Programs (Preprint)

Abstract

BACKGROUND As new technologies and innovations are integrated into medical practice, there is an increasing need for physicians-in-training to gain greater exposure to and develop a deeper understanding of innovation and technology (I&T) throughout their medical training. OBJECTIVE Identify and describe curricular and extracurricular opportunities for innovation in medical technology (I&T) in U.S. medical education to highlight insights for future directions and program development. METHODS A scoping exercise of U.S. allopathic medical schools was conducted. Data collection consisted of a review of publicly available information for each medical school as well as survey responses from student organizations across the country. RESULTS 103 I&T opportunities at 69 distinct LCME-accredited medical schools were identified and characterized into six categories: (a) integrative 4-year curriculum, (b) facilitated MD/MS in related field, (c) interdisciplinary collaboration, (d) area of concentration, (e) preclinical elective, and (f) student-run club. “Starting and running a business in healthcare” and “medical devices” were the most popular thematic focuses of student-led I&T groups. CONCLUSIONS Existing school-led and student-driven opportunities in medical innovation and technology indicate a growing interest and reflect educational challenges. Greater visibility of opportunities, collaboration between schools, and development of a centralized network can be considered to better educate and prepare students for the changing landscape of medical practice.