Preliminary Findings from an Effort to Increase Black Student Recruitment, Retention, and Completion of Medical School

Authors: Downer GA*, Bailey D and Gonzalez R

DOI: 10.23880/whsj-16000235

Volume 8, Issue 2

Abstract

Background: Black physicians are underrepresented in the healthcare workforce, accounting for only 5% of all physicians in active practice, whereas Blacks comprise 13% of the nation’s population. There is also a dearth of Blacks who are successful in applying to and completing medical school. Numerous studies show that Blacks are more likely to live in medically underserved areas and to prefer being treated by providers of color. Thus, the underrepresentation of Blacks in the physician workforce can be a factor in the perpetuation of health inequities. Howard University College of Medicine, a Center of Excellence (CoE), funded by the Bureau of Health Workforce (BHW) at the Health Resources and Services Administration, was launched to increase the number of Blacks who complete medical school and promote a more diverse physician workforce. Objectives: To design, implement, and evaluate a virtual curriculum and supportive programming that will enhance the capacity of Black undergraduate students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to apply to and complete medical school successfully. Methods: Surveys and document review. Results: Two years into our project, we have been particularly successful in assisting students already enrolled in medical school to achieve high national medical examination pass rates. However, we will need to sustain efforts to prime the pipeline by supporting higher numbers of undergraduates to successfully apply to medical school. Discussion: Our study aligns with programmatic goals to strengthen the physician workforce by diversifying it. The preliminary findings demonstrate that completing medical school and entering the physician workforce is a multi-faceted challenge, beset with financial burdens, and the need for sustained supportive environments. Conclusions: Preliminary findings highlight the need for a comprehensive approach to identifying and addressing the needs of this student population and providing targeted interventions.

Keywords: Recruitment; Retention; Financial Burdens

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