Tailored Mentorship for the Underrepresented and Allies in Radiation Oncology: The Association of Residents in Radiation Oncology Equity and Inclusion Subcommittee Mentorship Experience

Abstract

There are limited opportunities for mentorship for Underrepresented in Medicine (URM) trainees and physicians in radiation oncology (RO). The purpose of this study was to create and evaluate a formal mentorship program open to URMs and allies with interests in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). A mentorship program incorporating a virtual platform was designed by the Association of Residents in Radiation Oncology (ARRO) Equity and Inclusion Subcommittee (EISC). It was structured to include 6 sessions over 6 months with matched mentor/mentee pairs based on responses to a publicized online interest form. A compilation of evidence-based guidelines was provided to optimize the mentorship relationship. Linked pre- and post-program surveys were administered to collect demographic data, define baseline goals and level of support, and evaluate program satisfaction. Thirty-five mentor-mentee pairs were matched; 31 mentees completed the pre-program survey and 17 completed the post-program survey. Pre-program, only 3 mentees (9.7%) reported satisfaction with current mentorship and 5 (16%) reported mechanisms or mentorship in place at their program to support URMs. On the post-program survey, mentees reported high satisfaction with areas of mentorship, mentor attributes, and the program overall. Opportunities for improvement include implementation of mechanisms to enhance communication with mentor-mentee pairs and maintain longitudinal engagement. In the first-ever tailored mentorship program in RO for URMs and those with DEI interests, our results demonstrate that there is self-reported interest for better mentorship for URMs in RO, and that a nationwide structured mentorship program can address participants' goals with high satisfaction. Program expansion could provide URMs and allies in RO more opportunities for career development and promote a greater sense of community and inclusion within the field.