The training of future clinical geneticists: Evaluation and reflection on the ACMG Foundation for Genetic and Genomic Medicine Summer Genetics Scholars Program

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of the Summer Genetics Scholars Program of the ACMG Foundation for Genetic and Genomic Medicine is to expose medical students to medical genetics and genomics early during school with the aim of increasing the number of physicians pursuing a career in this field. This survey study evaluated the Summer Genetics Scholars Program on the achievement of its goals. Methods: Former Summer Genetics Scholars who had completed medical school were sent a 13-question survey aimed at evaluating the program and obtaining feedback about their experiences. Results: Of 125 former scholars, 55 completed the survey with 2 additional participants partially completing the survey. The vast majority of former participants report either being very satisfied or satisfied with their experience (96%). Conclusion: Whereas most participants found their experience to be beneficial, evaluation of the initial 6 years of the program did not show an increase in the number of students entering residencies in medical genetics and genomics. It likely is too early to assess the program's true influence on entry into the field because data were only available for the first 6 years of the Summer Genetics Scholars Program, and many residents typically choose to complete another primary specialty before medical genetics and genomics.