Cardiac camp: An outreach program to build health literacy among underrepresented in medicine adolescents and increase diversity in medicine

BACKGROUND: Eliminating racial and ethnic disparities in cardiovascular disease (CVD) requires multilevel action, including improving health literacy and diversifying the healthcare workforce. To contribute to this goal, UCSF medical students designed an immersive summer camp to teach underrepresented minority backgrounds in medical professions (URM) high school students about CVD and encourage interest in healthcare careers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A stipend-supported, 1-week cardiology summer camp for URM Bay Area high school students was implemented by medical students. Participating students completed a preprogram and postprogram survey to assess various metrics, including knowledge of CVD, comfort discussing and teaching concepts of CVD, and interest in medical careers on a Likert scale of 1–5. The mean differences in preprogram and postprogram scores in the second cohort in 2024 ( n = 25) were assessed. RESULTS: Twenty-five students participated in the second iteration of Cardiac Camp @ UCSF (80% female) from July 24 to 28, 2024. Most identified as URM (84%), and many came from households where English was not the primary language (76%). Postcamp surveys showed increased mean scores in CVD knowledge and awareness of medical careers. Open-ended responses indicated that students enjoyed the camp activities and felt more motivated to pursue healthcare careers. CONCLUSIONS: Cardiac Camp @ UCSF provides a novel framework for a pipeline program aimed at inspiring URM high school students to pursue careers in medicine. Short-term survey results showed increased CVD knowledge and confidence teaching others, aligning with Healthy People 2030 goals to reduce cardiovascular disparities and strengthen workforce diversity.