J Natl Med Assoc
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Racial/ethnic minority groups and low-income students continue to be underrepresented in medicine (URiM) despite years of diversity and inclusion efforts. Post baccalaureate programs (PBP) are shown to prepare underrepresented students to successfully matriculate to medical school. However, identification of the aspects of a PBP that are key to future success in medicine from the student perspective is lacking. Therefore, this study was designed to answer the question, "What aspects of a post baccalaureate program do URiM students see as valuable to their future success?" ⋯ Our findings suggest that in addition to academic preparation, PBPs for students who are underrepresented in medicine should empower students to recognize their strengths and qualifications in the field of medicine. Our study participants rejected the term "disadvantaged" as they celebrated the value of their backgrounds and what they bring to medicine.
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It is estimated that 1.9 million new cases of cancer will be diagnosed in 2023, with 33,890 occurring in South Carolina. Assessing the needs, barriers, and facilitators of healthcare professionals' (HCP) education in South Carolina is a step towards creating meaningful, equity-promoting cancer-based education/training. ⋯ There is a need to better align cancer education delivery for HCPs with their training needs and busy schedules as has been a demonstrated want by HCPs in topics that would increase knowledge and practice of DEI. As majority of respondents identified as non-Latine White, it is imperative to diversify the knowledge of the workforce to ensure that HCPs provide optimal care to patients from diverse backgrounds.