Program Overview

IMPORTANT DATES

January 5, 2024
 Call for Applications Opens
March 1, 2024
 Applications Due at 3pm ET
March 29, 2024
Finalists Notification
April 12, 2024
Finalists’ Video Submissions Due (3pm ET)
May 13, 2024
Scholars Notification
June 26-28, 2024
Scholars’ Orientation in DC
October 21, 2024
NAM Annual Meeting in DC

 

Funded by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, this collaborative program between the National Academy of Medicine (NAM) and the Council of Medical Specialty Societies (CMSS) is designed to develop a cadre of leaders who can drive implementation of effective strategies to raise awareness of diagnosis in medicine; support diagnostic excellence, including diagnostic safety, quality, and equity; and reduce diagnostic errors at the national level.  Up to 10* scholars are selected by an NAM-appointed advisory committee to participate in this one-year, part-time remote experience to enhance their knowledge and skills in diagnostic quality, safety, and equity and accelerate their career development in becoming national leaders in the field.

The program seeks exceptional individuals who are interested in focusing on diagnosis-related work from a broad range of disciplines and professions — including physicians, advanced practice clinicians, quality experts, informaticians, and researchers.  The program specifically encourages applications from underrepresented groups in medicine.

Strong preference will be given to candidates whose proposed program objectives address specific recommendations of the 2015 National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (the National Academies) consensus report, Improving Diagnosis in Health Care, when applicable.

* With additional support from The John A. Hartford Foundation, an 11th scholar with a focus on advancing diagnostic excellence, including diagnostic safety, quality, and equity for older adults may be selected.

"I have greatly appreciated the opportunity to meet in small-group with world leaders in the field and get to deepen my connections with a community of scholars who are all engaged in exciting and innovative scholarship."

- Lekshmi Santhosh, MD, MAEd

Program Activities

Beginning in late June, scholars participate in monthly educational sessions that are designed to enhance their professional and personal development and to inform their thinking in implementing their proposed programs that will improve diagnosis at the national level.  Each month, scholars convene virtually for a synchronous, live cohort activity and learning experience with guest experts around a specific topic in diagnostic excellence.  Scholars co-lead and moderate these monthly live sessions and serve as hosts for podcast episodes with guest experts.  

Scholars also participate in virtual and in-person networking opportunities through the NAM and CMSS.  In addition, scholars engage in asynchronous learning experiences throughout the year, which may include listening to podcast episodes, participating in online discussion boards, and completing recommended readings.

Additionally, scholars work on their proposed programs independently every month and meet with their mentor(s) every two months.  In addition, scholars participate in quarterly scheduled check-in calls with the program staff as well as quarterly scheduled assigned group meetings. 

Mentorship

Mentorship is an important part of the NAM Scholars in Diagnostic Excellence program.  As such, each scholar is carefully matched with mentor(s) who can provide professional guidance and subject matter/technical expertise for the work of the scholar.  Mentors are generally identified from one of CMSS’ 50+ specialty societies and the NAM network of professionals.

The NAM Scholars in Diagnostic Excellence has expanded my knowledge, mentorship, and community of colleagues. The opportunity to learn from colleagues and experts in the field has been invaluable.”

- Jorge Rodriguez, MD

Program Grant

Each scholar receives a grant of $35,000 that can be used towards salary offset, support for specific research efforts related to diagnostic excellence, and various program-related activities.  This grant can be used as a salary offset for the scholar and/or the scholar’s research staff.  Indirect costs are allowed.  For more details, refer to the Moore Foundation’s Indirect Cost Policy.

Scholars are expected to spend the full $35,000 within their one-year grant period.  Additionally, scholars are required to submit a final narrative and a financial report on activities and accounting for expenditures to the NAM after completion of the one-year program period.  Any remaining/unspent funds must be returned to the NAM.

Domestic Travel Funds

In addition to the $35,000 grant, each scholar receives up to $5,000 to cover domestic travel expenses for the program-related activities.  Some flexibility is provided; however, scholars should plan on attending the following during the one-year period and can use their domestic travel funds to attend these events.

  • June orientation in DC
  • October NAM Annual Meeting in DC
  • October SIDM Conference
  • June end-of-year symposium for the program in DC