A new summer enrichment and mentorship program started this week at St. Barnabas Hospital in the Bronx. 

The mentorship program gives first-year medical students from underrepresented communities an early hands-on introduction to emergency medicine.  

Dr. Sarah Jamison said the death of George Floyd became the catalyst for the hospital's new summer enrichment and mentorship program designed for underrepresented minorities in their first year of med school.

Eight students are participating into the program.  

Dr. Jamison said the program isn't just about equity, it's about improving patient care.

"When you're able to understand your patient more and if you're from the community,” said Dr. Jamison. “You're kind of able to relate to your patient more and it helps them trust you."

The program also guides students through bedside manner, their personal finances and navigating life as a doctor.

Dr. Jamison said she hopes to expand the program to other areas besides emergency medicine next year.