EXPLORATION OF FACTORS AFFECTING REPRESENTATION OF MINORITIES IN DERMATOLOGY

Abstract

This paper examines the reasons underlying the underrepresentation of minority students in the field of dermatology. There continues to be both unconscious and implicit bias against African-American and Hispanic students in regard to dermatology residency. This demographic of students is generally dissuaded from pursuing this specialty for reasons that are enumerated in this piece of work. Incorporating evidence from governmental data, articles, journals, and opinions of leaders within the field of dermatology this paper will demonstrate that there is indeed a form of institutional racism that permeates this field of medicine particularly. The paper will proceed to explore potential solutions to these issues in the hope that the field will become more accessible to minority students in the future.