Systematic Review of Research, Mentorship, and Career Resources for Medical Students Pursuing Neurosurgical Training

Abstract

Medical students are important team members and future healthcare providers in neurosurgery or other medical fields. We performed a systematic review evaluating studies assessing medical student guidance, mentorship, and career development in neurosurgery. The study aimed to identify the best practices and acknowledge gaps requiring improvement. A systematic review of 586 research studies evaluating important aspects of medical student career development in neurosurgery was performed. The studies were analyzed for evidence supporting specific strategies to foster career development. A total of 45 studies were identified and categorized into 8 categories: 1) medical student interest groups; 2) student fellowships and institutional programs; 3) research and observership funding; 4) medical student research and scholarship; 5) student-led interest groups; 6) student mentorship; 7) educational resources; and 8) diversity, equity, and inclusion for medical students. Studies supported the significant positive effects of career resources for medical students, which often resulted in higher publication quantities, increased interest in the field, and greater ease of matriculation into a neurosurgical residency. One central gap included limited formal opportunities at many institutions, including medical schools without neurosurgery programs. Additional gaps were an absent structure for many forms of mentorship and delayed engagement of medical students in neurosurgical training, which significantly affects career interests. The currently available resources for these aspects of career development are listed. These studies highlight the current endeavors to encourage medical student careers. However, ample gaps and missed opportunities were also identified. Further work at both institutional and national levels is needed to improve the current environment.