J Natl Med Assoc
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There have been ongoing efforts to increase the presence of underrepresented minorities in medicine (URMM), including faculty development initiatives, mentoring programs and outreach efforts. However, URMM faculty face unique challenges that are crucial for academic institutions and leaders to recognize in order to improve retention of this group and allow for meaningful advancement in the field. This paper introduces the concept of gate blocking, defined as what happens to minority faculty as a result of the consequences of the minority tax and systems designed to advantage some and disadvantage others. In addition to defining gate blocking, the authors make recommendations to address this concern in academic medicine and promote the advancement and retention of URMM faculty.
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Diversity in the workplace is crucial. As the United States population continues to diversify, the composition of graduate medical trainees (GMTs) among various medical specialties is not diversifying at nearly the same rate. This study aims to identify gender and ethnic minority disparities present in medicine, specifically among GMTs in the field of plastic surgery. ⋯ This study portrays the importance of highlighting gender and ethnic minority disparities in the field of plastic surgery, thereby promoting initiatives for change in the coming future.
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Obesity is a widespread disease which adversely impacts all organ systems and disproportionately affects African Americans and other minority groups. Physicians across medical specialties must possess current knowledge of obesity as an important, distinct disease with biological and social causes. Coverage of obesity on board certification examinations, which influence standards in medical knowledge and practice in each specialty, has not previously been examined. ⋯ None of the blueprints included racial/ethnic disparities related to obesity. Word count was not significantly correlated with mentions of obesity in linear regression (p = .42). The absence of any mention of obesity on most content outlines and of racial/ethnic disparities on all content outlines indicates need for increased coverage of the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of obesity across all board examinations.
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Racial tensions continue to ignite social unrest in the United States. Structural racism is increasingly recognized as a public health issue. It is therefore necessary to continue addressing the interaction of race and medicine, including anesthesiology. ⋯ To understand these irregularities without relying on unsupported theories, we must challenge our current understanding of race in medicine. By reviewing the history of anesthesia through a racialized lens, we may better explore our biases and develop strategies towards racially equitable care. This article focuses on anesthesia's roots on the plantation in the American South, the medical perpetuation of racial disparities, and the challenges we face in healthcare today.