Afua Takyi, MD, MS, MPH
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | Preventive Medicine Residency Program

I chose Preventive Medicine because of my passion for public health and desire to guide awareness and change at a population-based level while focusing on maternal health, racial and health disparities in underserved communities, education, patient advocacy, clinical prevention, and research. My unique training allows me to practice full-scope public health and clinical medicine.

The APTR-AHRQ/USPSTF rotation was an invaluable experience and an excellent opportunity to learn the rigorous methodology of developing the USPSTF recommendation statements. I have a much deeper appreciation and understanding of this comprehensive process. During my rotation, I was involved in several projects, including drafting presentation slides to support AHRQ leadership in a national meeting, critically appraising literature and presenting on a randomized controlled trial to AHRQ medical officers to inform USPSTF recommendations, and completing several fact-checks to ensure the accuracy of the evidence in draft recommendation statements during the development process. I gained in-depth knowledge of the diverse draft prevention topics. During resident rounds, my AHRQ preceptor and the other medical officers provided great mentorship on synthesizing evidence accurately and critically when evaluating recommendation statements. I am very thankful to have worked with such an incredible and collaborative team that significantly supports the US Preventive Services Task Force's work.

I was fortunate to participate in the USPSTF meeting calls and gain insight into how the evidence is judiciously evaluated, reviewed, and prioritized for draft recommendations. It was also a remarkable experience to attend the USPSTF meeting in-person and witness firsthand the tremendous preparation and dedication that goes into each recommendation statement serving our nation and guiding clinicians!

Learn more about the APTR-AHRQ Preventive Medicine Residency Program