Jamie’s project centers on helping to improve the healthcare technology self-efficacy (HTSE) of patients at the PATH Clinic and raising awareness of the digital divide and technological inclusivity as it applies to healthcare. She conducted surveys, one-on-one conversations, and informal focus groups in the lobby of the PATH Clinic to gather information on patients’ opinions, reflections, and personal goals for their own HTSE. She also provided brief, informal educational sessions in which she coached the participant to set and achieve a small, concrete, personal goal related to their use of technology. The purpose of these sessions was twofold: the participant learned a new digital skill or a tool to improve tech access, while simultaneously increasing their self-efficacy related to the ability to identify and solve problems related to the use of technology in the future. Quantitative and qualitative data were compiled and analyzed, resulting in selection of three key topics identified by participants as barriers to HTSE and/or technology access. Educational materials for key topics were created, aimed at improving the digital literacy and HTSE of those receiving them. Finally, Jamie’s project helped to raise awareness of physicians-in-training about the digital divide and the increasingly dire need to expand technological access and inclusivity. 

As a result of the program: 

• 18 PATH patients requested and received individual coaching to help them reach self-identified goals for improving their access to technology
• 112 medical students received lectures and presentations designed to increase awareness about the digital divide and its relevance as a “social determinant of health.”
• 58 PATH Clinic patients completed the HTSE survey
• 3 infographic-style flyers were written and designed based on the results of the program surveys and coaching sessions, in order to provide a quick, simple reference to help improve digital skills and access
• 5 Birmingham-based organizations that offer education and resources aimed toward bridging the digital divide were connected to each other for networking and potential resource sharing 
• Creation of an official student service organization within the UAB’s School of Medicine. The student interest group, Technology Equity for Health Consulting Student Interest Group (TECH SIG), is intended to provide a pool of volunteers and future project leaders. 

“My experience as an Alabama Schweitzer Fellow has helped me learn so much about the value of interprofessionality! Also, working alongside my amazing peer fellows has added to my understanding of how transformative interdisciplinary collaboration can be. A great interprofessional team is like an amazing potluck dinner. The more unique dishes there are to enjoy, the more fun the feast! (I’m from South Louisiana, where we pretty much think of everything in terms of food.) Together, as a collective of healthcare professionals, community leaders, and advocates for health equity, we have the power to dismantle systemic barriers and to build more robust and resilient healthcare systems. By harnessing our collective knowledge, skills, and passion for improving health outcomes, we can create a world where everyone has access to the care and resources they need to thrive. Looking back at the year, I find myself incredibly inspired by the PATH Across the Digital Divide project mentors and participants, peer ASF fellows, and ASF leaders, to stand together and fight for a more just and equitable healthcare system.”