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Demystifying the Nephron: a Call to Action

  • Renal (D Noone, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

There is growing concern among educators regarding the difficulty in recruitment of trainees to pediatric nephrology, and the importance of developing a strong foundational knowledge in nephrology for all pediatric trainees. This review highlights the factors that may influence trainee interest in nephrology, as well as what educators can do to demystify nephrology.

Recent Findings

A large percentage of fellowship positions go unmatched in pediatric nephrology in the USA. Adult nephrologists have faced similar workforce concerns and have worked to overcome perceived barriers to trainee interest.

Summary

Trainees choose specialty careers based on interest in subject matter, perceived quality of life, role models, and geographical constraints. Pediatric nephrologists can make content more accessible through active learning methods. Increasing visibility throughout medical school and providing mentorship can be valuable. Finally, broadening the scope of nephrology from being solely an academic research–focused specialty can increase relevance for trainees.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4L8, Canada

    Charushree Prasad

  2. Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada

    Jenna Mistry

  3. Division of Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada

    Seetha Radhakrishnan

Authors
  1. Charushree Prasad
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  2. Jenna Mistry
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  3. Seetha Radhakrishnan
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Correspondence to Charushree Prasad.

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Prasad, C., Mistry, J. & Radhakrishnan, S. Demystifying the Nephron: a Call to Action. Curr Pediatr Rep 9, 127–133 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40124-021-00251-y

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