Abstract: TH-PO0023
From Fellowship to Leadership: Long-Term Outcomes of a Nephrology Business Leadership Training Program
Session Information
- Educational Research Within and Across Disciplines
November 06, 2025 | Location: Exhibit Hall, Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Educational Research
- 1000 Educational Research
Authors
- Liu, Annie, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
- Baloch, Muhammad Yasir, Washington University in St Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States
- Miracle, Cynthia, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States
- Mullaney, Scott, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States
- Nangia, Samir, Texas Christian University Anne Burnett Marion School of Medicine, Fort Worth, Texas, United States
Background
The Nephrology Business Leadership University (NBLU) program was developed as a week-long course to better equip nephrology fellows with practical knowledge in business, leadership, and career development – areas often underrepresented in traditional medical training. Now in its tenth year, NBLU has engaged 456 fellows from 93 fellowship programs across the United States. Understanding the program’s long-term influence can inform future investments in non-clinical education for nephrology trainees.
Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional survey study to evaluate the long-term impact of NBLU on its alumni. Eligible participants included all individuals who completed the program between 2016 and 2024. A 9-item online questionnaire was developed and distributed via email between March 20, 2025 and April 20, 2025. Survey domains included leadership roles, reflection on the program, and perceived program impact on their career. Quantitative responses were summarized using descriptive statistics and open-ended responses were analyzed thematically by two independent coders. The primary outcome was a self-reported influence of the program on current professional roles and career trajectories.
Results
Of the 456 NBLU alumni, 141 completed an online survey. The most common current work settings were: private practice (n=75, 53%), academic practice (n=43, 30%) and non-academic hospital-based practice (n=9, 6.4%). Since completing NBLU, 112 respondents (79%) have held at least one leadership role. Additionally, 92% (n=118) reported that NBLU positively influenced their career planning and helped position them for success. Thematic analysis of open-ended responses revealed the program’s top three key areas of impact: enhanced business and financial literacy, improved understanding of practice models, and stronger negotiation and contract skills.
Conclusion
NBLU alumni reported a strong and sustained impact of the program on their career development, leadership roles, and professional preparedness. These findings highlight the value of structured business and leadership training within nephrology fellowship programs to support diverse career paths to ensure long-term success in nephrology.