Advocacy Track
KidsCARE (Community Advocacy at Rush for Equity)
First year residents learn about different ways they can help advocate for their patients through experiences with various community organizations. Given that advocacy is a large part of every pediatrician’s career, the Advocacy Track was established in July 2020. This will provide motivated residents the opportunity to have a longitudinal experience in order to strengthen their ability to become future leaders in advocacy on community, state, and national levels.
Advocacy is a vital part of every pediatrician’s career. Our mission is to support motivated residents in their journey to becoming pediatricians who are excited and competent in advocating for patients and families on individual, institutional, community, and legislative levels. This will involve learning how to effectively work with community partners and develop leadership skills to promote the well-being and health of children. Now more than ever, we need young physicians to rise to the challenge of finding equity for all our patients.
KidsCARE Mission Statement
A free flu vaccine clinic ran in the fall/winter of 2020.
Recruitment
Applications will be accepted until August of your first year. Up to 2 residents will be selected based on submitted CVs and personal statements. Residents in the Global Health Track are excluded.
Requirements
- Self-study curriculum developed in conjunction with the course directors
- Minimum of 2 weeks of Advanced Advocacy during PL2 and PL3 years
- Completion of a Longitudinal Advocacy Project
- Present at Grand Rounds
- Submit abstract/presentation
Core topics
- Social Determinants of Health/ACES
- Empowering Pediatricians to Promote Patient Health
- Vulnerable Populations (Medically Complex/Special Needs)
- Safety/Prevention/Health Promotion
- Community Partnerships/Engagement (schools, libraries)
- Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
