Training in Neurology: Resident Perception of the Utility and Applicability of Global Neurology Morning Reports.
Andrew M AgostiniMichael R HalsteadArun VenkatesanDeanna R SaylorPublished in: Neurology (2021)
Interest in global health is increasing among neurology residents. However, funding, time, and, recently, COVID-19 travel restrictions, remain barriers to widespread participation. To meet this need, we instituted virtual global neurology morning reports with the objectives of (1) improving knowledge about neurological diseases common in sub-Saharan Africa; and (2) developing clinical reasoning skills through consideration of diagnostic and therapeutic limitations in resource-limited settings. Interactive case-based sessions were presented from Zambia via videoconference by a Johns Hopkins faculty member or Zambian neurology trainee. An anonymous cross-sectional survey was conducted among Johns Hopkins neurology residents. Of eligible participants, 69% (n=30) completed the survey, 66% of whom were female, and 33% reported prior in-person global health experience. While most participants did not anticipate a career in global health, the majority (85%) reported that exposure to global health was important. All but one participant (96%) reported satisfaction with the global neurology morning reports, with 100% reporting they were useful to their clinical knowledge and 86% reporting they were useful to their clinical practice. All respondents felt morning reports should continue, and 69% ranked the educational value of the experience in the top quartile of the residency curriculum. Resident satisfaction with and perceived utility of global neurology morning reports were high even though the majority did not plan to pursue global neurology opportunities as part of their career. Remote learning opportunities may increase interest in global health among neurology residents.