Rapid Fire (Concurrent Session)-Rapid Fire Session-Driving Measurable DEI Improvements in the Physician Workforce

Pdf Summary

This document discusses efforts to drive measurable improvements in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the physician workforce. The document highlights two projects: one aimed at increasing the pool of diverse applicants to medical school and reducing barriers to entry, and the other focused on implementing effective mentorship, coaching, and sponsorship programs for historically underrepresented individuals in medicine. The projects involve several participating societies and aim to harmonize longitudinal data along pathways.<br /><br />The document provides interim results of a survey administered to specialty societies to understand the existing programs that advance inclusivity and access for underrepresented in medicine (UIMs). The survey collects information about the operationalization of these programs, including data collection, cost, IT support, resource allocation, and measurements.<br /><br />The results show that 82 unique programs are being implemented by 21 out of 51 specialty societies and 7 out of 30 Organization of Program Directors Association (OPDA) members. The programs focus on various aspects such as sponsorship, allyship, mentorship, leadership development, and networking. The target audience includes applicants to medical school, clinicians at different stages of their careers, and those with impacted life experiences.<br /><br />The survey also reveals that most programs are designed specifically for individuals with impacted life experiences, such as discrimination or socioeconomic status. While the majority of programs are measuring their impact and allowing participants to evaluate them, there is a need to address challenges and questions regarding reducing healthcare disparities and increasing the number of physicians with impacted life experiences.<br /><br />The document concludes by encouraging survey completion and inviting stakeholders to join the collective effort to drive measurable DEI improvements in the physician workforce.

Asset Caption

Salandra Thomas
Vice President, Talent and Organizational Development,
Infectious Disease Society of America

Tracy J. Sereiko
MBA, CAE Associate Executive Director of Specialty Engagement and Market
Development,
American Academy of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

Keywords

diversity

equity

inclusion

DEI

physician workforce

medical school

mentorship programs

underrepresented individuals

specialty societies

healthcare disparities