Demographic Factors and Academic Outcomes Associated With Taking a Leave of Absence From Medical School

• Authors: Mytien Nguyen, Yale University; Seo Ho Song, Dartmouth College; Angelina Ferritto, Emory University; Ashar Ata, Albany Medical College; Hyacinth RC Mason, Albany Medical College
• Journal Title: JAMA Network Open
• Volume: Volume 4, Number 1
• Publisher: JAMA Network | 2021-01-22
• Type of Work: Article | Final Publisher PDF
• Publisher DOI: http://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2020.33570
• Subjects: Health Sciences, Medicine and Surgery

Abstract

To address the US physician shortage, the likelihood that medical matriculants transition to graduation and physicianhood must increase.1 One factor that has negative consequences for medical school graduation rates is taking a leave of absence (LOA).2 Students take LOAs for academic, financial, health, or personal reasons. This study of US medical school matriculants explores potential factors and academic outcomes associated with taking an LOA.