Clinical Education and Research

JEDI group photo

We are committed to the well-being and success of all community members. Columbia complies with all applicable civil rights laws and does not engage in illegal preferences or discrimination

The principles of health equity and justice are fundamental to the landscape of medical education and research. By valuing diverse perspectives and experiences, we aim to drive innovation, enrich our learning environments, and improve the quality of patient care. Prioritizing equity allows us to address health care disparities and ensure that research outcomes benefit all populations. Incorporating these principles into medical education and research fosters fairness, enhances opportunities for all, and advances health care outcomes across communities.

Below are several programs within the Department of Pediatrics that focus on creating equitable environments and advocating for health care practices that promote fairness and accessibility for all.

PedsBESAFE

PedsBESAFE is an anonymous and/or confidential, Department of Pediatrics–specific feedback tool for the clinical learning environment. Our department gathers information about learning environment challenges and strengths, and uses this data to create holistic, systemic solutions in partnership with division chiefs, medical directors, and program directors.

Health Equity StARR (Stimulating Access to Research in Residency) Program

StARR scholars Drs. Marcus Mosley and Olivia Maguire, along with Pediatrics chair Dr. Jordan Orange and StARR program PI Dr. Jacquelyn Taylor (first and second from left), and Dr. Patrisha Woolard, Pediatrics residency program director (right) 

The CUIMC NHLBI Health Equity StARR program, an R38 grant, is awarded to residents at VP&S who are dedicated to advancing health equity through health services, learning health systems, translational, basic science, and clinical research. Health Equity StARR program allows for a research year that will cover 80 percent of their salary, tuition, and fees, plus a $3,000 stipend. The remaining 20 percent of their salary and time will be dedicated to clinical care, supported by their department and residency program. The inaugural recipients of the award are pediatric residents Marcus Mosley, MD, MS and Olivia Maguire, MD, PhD (Physician-Scientist Program). Learn more about our StARR program.

Health Equity Pediatric Clerkship for Visiting Students

This virtual and in-person pediatrics elective will introduce participants to the structure and culture of the NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia Department of Pediatrics. The clerkship will provide students with advanced concepts in pediatric clinical management, while promoting team building, self-reflection, and exposure to pediatric residency work and culture. Students with demonstrated commitment to health equity and justice in clinical and/or research settings are welcome to apply. This rotation will offer students the opportunity to gain insight into the values of equity in pediatric care, fostering a deeper understanding of its role in shaping the future of healthcare. Learn more about our Pediatric Health Equity elective for visiting students.

ENRICH (“Engaging Residents in Communication and Humanism”)

ENRICH Program is an annual, week-long, program-wide experience. Afternoon workshop sessions are facilitated by faculty actively involved in the Pediatric Development and Inclusion Council and Community Pediatrics. The ENRICH curriculum aims to:

  • Explore multiple perspectives in patient encounters
  • Increase understanding of factors that decrease patient and provider satisfaction and therapeutic partnerships
  • Build practical skills in addressing issues of health equity in clinical encounters
  • Engage in reflections around next steps for improving effective communication

Learn more about our Pediatric Residency Program.

Resident Health Equity Lecture Series

virtual lecture in conference room

The PDIC has crafted an extensive educational curriculum featuring morning and afternoon conferences dedicated to promoting health equity and improved communication with patients, families, community partners and colleagues.

Structured as a longitudinal program, the curriculum enables learners to share their unique challenges and experiences, both within and beyond hospital settings, and explore their impact on training and patient care. By spotlighting these issues, participants develop practical strategies applicable to interactions with fellow healthcare providers, medical students, community partners and patients alike.

Moreover, these initiatives foster an environment of mutual respect among team members, enhancing relationships and deepening understanding of the varied needs of the children under their care. This collaborative approach enriches the educational experience while reinforcing a commitment to universally equitable healthcare practices within the department.

Health Equity Rounds

Health Equity Rounds (HER) is a trainee-led, case-based conference series and curriculum designed to examine the influence that personal experience has on patient care and the interpersonal, professional, and structural factors that perpetuate health disparities. This initiative serves as an institutional effort to advance medical education and promote health equity.

The Future

Linda Aponte Patel and two resident trainees

Our overarching objective is to expand our efforts to a national level. Our work and accomplishments underscore our department’s considerable commitment to training pediatricians who provide patient-centered and outstanding care to our patient population. Future goals are aimed at strengthening our relationship with local community programs and creating opportunities for trainees, faculty, and staff to participate in more health equity research initiatives.