Affirmative Action

For those who have been with me for a while you may have already read my blog post called “Flashback: ‘Don’t Worry, You’re Black’”. If you haven’t, take a moment to browse through it as it will give you context about some of the things I will talk able here is this space.

The New England Journal of Medicine issued an article in response the latest political statement about affirmative action. Simply put, there is not longer a requirement for institutions of higher level education to accept a percentage of minority students. The grounds from this likely came on the heels of those who believed that minority students accepted under the clause of affirmative action were less qualified than those who were accepted based on merit alone.

Yeah, I am just going to pause for a moment and let that sink in….

Affirmative action, as well as other similar-minded policies, is essential in a country (dare I say world) where racism and aggression towards minorities continues to exist. Especially in places where slavery and segregation were once acceptable social norms limiting minoirites from access good quality education and training.

From the perspective of medicine, this decision in favor or eliminating affirmative action will worsen the disproportionally low percentage of minority physicians. This translates to fewer minority patients being treated by trained physicians who look like them which could lead to worsening health outcomes.

It is a concerning reality, especially in the field of maternal and pediatric health.

What are some ways we can combat this? How can we support minority students and trainees pursuing a path in healthcare? How can be build and support existing institutions that intentionally recruit minority students who succeed and graduate to help serve in their own communities?

We need physicians from all different minorities, however in this blog post, I am specifically advocating for Black/Caribbean providers to care for our communities. We need physicians who look like us and are equipped with the knowledge and resources to care for us, even if the majority may not share the same understanding.

What are your thoughts?