Journal of general internal medicine
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Diversity in the physician workforce is critical for quality patient care. Students from low-income backgrounds represent an increasing proportion of medical school matriculants, yet little research has addressed their medical school experiences. ⋯ Previously reported attrition and adverse academic outcomes among low-income students may be linked to challenges they experience trying to more fully meet important human needs. This finding underscores the need to approach wellness holistically and ensure students do not exist in a prolonged state of unmet needs. Recommendations that accreditation bodies and medical schools could implement to promote tailored support for low-income and other marginalized learners are provided.
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The Experience of Undocumented Individuals Denied Stem Cell Transplant for Hematologic Malignancies.
Undocumented individuals with hematologic malignancies in the United States face barriers to receiving often-curative stem cell transplant (SCT), instead receiving inferior treatment with higher mortality. Federal and state policies' impact on undocumented individuals' lived experiences goes unnoticed. ⋯ Seven individuals (2 (29%) female, 5 (71%) male, mean age [SD] 44 [15.8]) were interviewed. Themes were divided into those unique to the undocumented immigrant experience and those unifying with the cancer illness experience. Themes unique to the immigrant experience Theme 1: Cancer and immigration status Debilitating cancer symptoms disrupt legal immigration process Feeling dehumanized when health insurance determines ability to live Fatalism and resignation to inadequate care Theme 2: Appreciation and Gratitude for Advocacy Awareness of physician advocacy Theme 3: Pride and purpose in the United States Desire to make a positive impact on society Pride in immigrants' contribution to US workforce Unifying themes related to cancer experience were Theme 4: Adversity related to cancer care and treatment Feeling dismissed and delayed diagnosis Financial hardships intensify emotional and physical burden Burdening family Social isolation Theme 5: Support and coping mechanisms Embracing positivity Religion as a source of comfort Critical support from family and friends Gratitude for compassionate care Appreciation for care that is unavailable in home country CONCLUSIONS: This unique population faces intersectional challenges due to immigration status, insurance access, and cancer. The experiences of undocumented individuals highlight the need for state policymakers to expand coverage for comprehensive cancer care.