National Institutes of Health StrokeNet Training Core

Abstract

Background and Purpose- The National Institutes of Health (NIH) StrokeNet provides a nationwide infrastructure to advance stroke research. Capitalizing on this unique opportunity, the NIH StrokeNet Training Core (NSTC) was established with the overarching goal of enhancing the professional development of a diverse spectrum of professionals who are embedded in the stroke clinical trials network of the NIH StrokeNet. Methods- This special report provides a descriptive account of the rationale, organization, and activities of the NSTC since its inception in 2013. Current processes and their evolution over time for facilitating training of NIH StrokeNet trainees have been highlighted. Data collected for monitoring training are summarized. Outcomes data (publications and grants) collected by NSTC was supplemented by publicly available resources. Results- The NSTC comprises of cross-network faculty, trainees, and education coordinators. It helps in the development and monitoring of training programs and organizes educational and career development activities. Trainees are provided directed guidance towards their mandated research projects, including opportunities to present at the International Stroke Conference. The committee has focused on developing sustainable models of peer-to-peer interaction and cross-institutional mentorships. A total of 124 professionals (43.7% female, 10.5% underrepresented minorities) have completed training between 2013 and 2018, of whom 55% were clinical vascular neurologists. Of the total, 85% transitioned to a formal academic position and 95% were involved in stroke research post-training. Altogether, 1659 indexed publications have been authored or co-authored by NIH StrokeNet Trainees, of which 58% were published during or after their training years. Based on data from 109 trainees, 33% had submitted 72 grant proposals as principal or co-principal investigators of which 22.2% proposals have been funded. Conclusions- NSTC has provided a foundation to foster nationwide training in stroke research. Our data demonstrate strong contribution of trainees towards academic scholarship. Continued innovation in educational methodologies is required to adapt to unique training opportunities such as the NIH StrokeNet.

Keywords: National Institutes of Health; education; neurologists; organizations; stroke.

Figure 1:

Schematic representation of the activities undertaken by the NIH StrokeNet Training Core (NSTC) on an annual process. The figure chronologically represents (starting from top) a typical academic year. Blue boxes are various activities of the NSTC, green and brown boxes are feedback and communication loops with RCCs and trainees. Activities undertaken as a part of learning health communities are highlighted in orange.

Figure 2:

Proportions of trainee / attendee responses across categories of agreement regarding content and quality of NIH StrokeNet Training Core moderated grand rounds for last four annual training cycles.

Figure 3:

Proportions of trainee / attendee responses across four categories of agreement regarding content and quality of NIH StrokeNet Training Core moderated professional development webinars for last four annual training cycles.

Figure 4:

Number of grant proposals submitted by the NIH StrokeNet Trainees categorized as ‘not funded’, ‘under review’ and ‘funded’ across various funding mechanisms during past four training cycles. Representation of data on total 109 NIH StrokeNet trainees. AHA: American Heart Association, AAN: American Academy of Neurology, UNK: Unknown