Presenter(s)
B. M. Webb1, N. Bader1, M. J. Case1, J. Y. Lin2, S. Rudra1, M. K. Khan1, S. Unnikrishnan1, J. S. Remick1, and N. Ali3; 1Department of Radiation Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 2Department of Radiation Oncology and Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 3Department of Radiation Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
Purpose/Objective(s): Multiple interventions have aimed to address declining interest in radiation oncology among U.S. medical students. This educational model sought to increase early knowledge and interest in radiation oncology during the formative years of medical school, while establishing clinical and research mentorship to support the development of well-rounded future clinicians.
Materials/Methods: This intervention was designed as a longitudinal radiation oncology elective enrolling 16 medical students (13 MD, 3 MD/PhD) between 2022 and 2025 at a single academic institution. A maximum of 4 students were admitted per year; the elective spanned three months to ensure individualized mentorship and clinical exposure. Students were paired with multiple attending physicians and engaged in structured clinical experiences including inpatient and outpatient consultations, CT simulation, radiation treatment planning, treatment delivery, multidisciplinary tumor boards, chart rounds, and didactic sessions. At the conclusion of the elective, participants completed an optional post-intervention survey assessing understanding of radiation oncology and satisfaction with the elective.
Results: All participants were exposed to multiple disease sites, participated in contouring activities, and observed diverse patient consultations. Most students completed the post-elective survey (69%, n=11) providing the program with descriptive statistics. All survey respondents reported that the elective significantly enhanced their understanding of cancer treatment and the role of radiation therapy. Notably, 64% of respondents (n = 7) identified this elective as their first exposure to oncology. Qualitative feedback emphasized the impact of patient interactions on fostering students’ empathy and enhancing perceptions of multidisciplinary cancer care and radiation oncology. Longitudinal follow-up with former participants revealed sustained interest in oncology and radiation oncology among 4 students (36%).
Conclusion: This early-exposure radiation oncology elective improved students’ understanding of oncology care and generated sustained interest in radiation oncology through immersive clinical experiences and mentorship. This model is feasible, well-received, and reproducible at other institutions.