131 Investing in Education: Design and evaluation of an innovative clinical research coordinator New Hire Education Program to strengthen clinical and translational research

Abstract

OBJECTIVES/GOALS: The overarching goal of the Mayo Clinic in Florida Clinical Research New Hire Training Programis to create a standardized work force development model that ensures all new research coordinators receive the same high-quality training and can perform their role. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: Mayo Clinic implemented a comprehensive six-week in-class training program to teach research coordinators how to conduct clinical research studies and trials. A multi-disciplinary team with expertise in education, operations, study coordination, and human resources assisted in development. The program approaches education through the lens of application. Staff start on designated hire dates and have an assigned trainer, allowing them to complete the program in cohorts and build connections with one another. During the program, they complete assignments, checkpoints, and shadow within their units. At the conclusion, they take a one-on-one assessment with a trainer to confirm they can work independently. If a learner cannot pass, the trainer and supervisor implement a learning plan targeting their needs. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: The program has had 110 graduates since its April 2022 inception, with a steady improvement in learner satisfaction scores. Based on the question “My site’s new hire education program was good,” with 5 being strongly agree and 1 being strongly disagree, learners rate the current iteration as 4.38. The program has a positive correlation with retention and favorable quality reviews. 23.8% of new coordinators hired from April of 2021 to March of 2022 left within the first year. From April 2022 to September 2023, the first-year turnover rate fell to 14.55%. Additionally, 43% of quality reviews completed for graduates required no follow-up, compared to 35% of staff hired before implementation of the program. Only 5% of reviews for graduates required urgent follow-up, compared to 15% of those completed for existing staff. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: Research Coordinators who complete the training program report a higher confidence level and demonstrate they can perform their role. The effects of our program have been so pronounced that the curriculum is being translated within Clinical Research across all of Mayo Clinic and our Florida site is researching ways to market it outside of Mayo Clinic.