Abstract: SA-PO028
KIDNEYcon: An Innovative Conference for Nephrologists and Trainees
Session Information
- Educational Research
November 09, 2019 | Location: Exhibit Hall, Walter E. Washington Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Educational Research
- 800 Educational Research
Authors
- Farouk, Samira S., Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai, New York, New York, United States
- Sparks, Matthew A., Duke University and Durham VA Medical Centers, Durham, North Carolina, United States
- Bulloch, Kelly W., University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, United States
- Sharma, Shree G., Arkana Laboratories, Little Rock, Arkansas, United States
- Arthur, John M., University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, United States
Background
KIDNEYcon is an annual conference geared towards trainees and practicing nephrologists established in 2016 with a goal to fill important educational, career development, and practice gaps in nephrology. KIDNEYcon features unique interactive workshops, hands-on educational experiences, clinical sessions, and mentoring opportunities provide to provide rich opportunities for learning, fostering research careers, networking, and enhance collaboration. In addition, KIDNEYcon provides a venue to foster enthusiasm and interest in nephrology among medical students and residents.
Methods
KIDNEYcon is a 3-day conference held each April in Little Rock, AR. We evaluated the content of interactive workshops, assessed attendee demographics over the last 4 years, and sent an anonymous survey to trainee attendees to evaluate the experience and impact of KIDNEYcon.
Results
Attendance to KIDNEYcon grew from 35 in 2016 to 109 in 2019. In 2019, 38% (42/109) of the attendees were trainees (20% from the Northeast, 7% Midwest, 51% Southeast, 10% Southwest, 12% West). Of the 42 trainees, 59% were fellows (13 programs), 24% residents (9 IM residency programs), and 17% medical students (3 medical schools). 57% of trainee attendees responded to the survey. 100% rated their experience at KIDNEYcon as 4 or 5 out of 5, with 5 being the highest. 92% learned either “a great amount” or “quite a bit.” 92% strongly agreed or agreed that KIDNEYcon contributed to their overall knowledge base. 50% reported increased interest in a research career. 88% and 92% strongly agreed or agreed that they would maintain relationships with nephrologists and other trainees, respectively. Topics for the interactive workshops (4 hrs) vary each year, though several high interest workshops have been repeated including the Kidney Biopsy Academy, Pathology Workshop, Acid-Base & Electrolytes workshop.
Conclusion
KIDNEYcon is a unique opportunity for trainees and practicing nephrologist to learn hands-on skills, network with colleagues,, while increasing interest in nephrology and research careers. Response from trainees has been overwhelmingly positive. Goals for future conferences are to continue to expand workshop and didactic offerings, including direct solicitation of workshops from the community, and to further develop trainee engagement.