Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA): Maximizing Impacts in Medical Education and Health Care

Abstract

Introduction Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) provides a path for individuals who are undocumented to join the physician workforce. Indeed, recipients of DACA can play an important role in addressing health inequities in medicine. Although DACA has been in place since 2012, many medical schools remain unaware of it or are hesitant to consider recipients for admission. In a similar vein, the premedical community, including those with DACA status, may be unaware of their eligibility and the steps necessary to pursue medicine. Further education and outreach are needed to achieve institutional policies conducive to the inclusion and success of those undocumented in medicine. Methods We created an hour-long workshop to empower learners with key knowledge relevant to DACA policy and its impact on medicine. We evaluated the workshop through pre- and postworkshop questionnaires assessing participant knowledge and attitudes based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB). Results A total of 112 participants engaged in our workshop. Ninety-one pretests and 61 posttests were completed by attendees. Data revealed a significant increase in performance on all knowledge-based and TPB questions, including intention to participate in future policy development. Moreover, participants reported appreciating the interactive nature of the session and expressed feelings of empowerment by their newfound knowledge base. Discussion This workshop provides a promising foundation from which conversations and progress regarding DACA-related medical education policy can begin. Specifically, the workshop engages participants in the process of identifying actionable steps for overcoming barriers to inclusion and support.

Supporting DACA recipients and international students pursuing careers in medicine: A pilot program for advisors

“…Past programming efforts for students who are undocumented, DACA recipients, or on a student visa have primarily focused on providing information to learners [ 19 , 20 ], despite gaps in knowledge among medical educators and administration [ 21 , 22 ]. Thus, we saw an opportunity for targeting individuals who advise students who are undocumented, DACA recipients, or on a visa.…”

“…Thus, we saw an opportunity for targeting individuals who advise students who are undocumented, DACA recipients, or on a visa. The transition to virtual formats due to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID- 19) pandemic and surge in efforts to diversify healthcare presented an additional opportunity. We developed a virtual program for pre-health advisors and educators to mentor DACA recipients and international students on their transition to medical school and better prepare them for a career in medicine.…”