Diversifying the dermatology workforce: Physician characteristics vary by race/ethnicity

J Natl Med Assoc. 2022 Aug;114(4):369-376. doi: 10.1016/j.jnma.2022.02.011. Epub 2022 Mar 23.

Abstract

Background: In the United States (US), dermatology remains one of the least diverse specialties in medicine. Increasing the diversity of the dermatology workforce is essential for reducing health disparities.

Objective: To describe the experiences of racially and ethnically diverse physicians in the US who successfully matched into dermatology.

Methods: Board-certified dermatologists and dermatology residents were recruited to participate in an anonymous, online survey in which self-reported demographic, socioeconomic, pre-residency, and post-residency career data were obtained.

Results: Of the 100 participants included in the study, 30% were dermatology residents and 25% belonged to a group underrepresented in medicine (UIM). Black physicians were 3.69 times more likely to select dermatology prior to medical school (odds ratio [OR], 3.69; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.04 - 13.0) compared to non-Black physicians. UIM dermatologists and trainees were more likely to receive a need-based scholarship in medical school (OR, 4.37; 95% CI, 1.30 - 14.7), graduate from a private medical institution (OR, 6.49; 95% CI, 1.95 - 21.6), and have at least one UIM dermatology mentor during medical school (adjusted OR, 13.1; 95% CI, 2.77 - 61.5) compared to non-UIM physicians.

Conclusions: A holistic review of dermatology applicants by residency programs may reduce racial/ethnic disparities in the admission process. Our data provide further evidence in support of pre-medical outreach programs, mentorship, and institutional funding to promote diversity in dermatology.

Keywords: Dermatology; Disparities; Diversity; Equity; Workforce.

MeSH terms

  • Dermatology* / education
  • Ethnicity
  • Humans
  • Internship and Residency*
  • Physicians*
  • United States
  • Workforce