Historically, there has been a lack of diversity in the field of medicine. This lack can affect patient outcomes in many ways as patients from underrepresented groups may go without care if they cannot gain access to a physician they can relate to; whether that be due to race, socioeconomic backgrounds, gender identity, religious affiliation or a myriad of other identifying factors. While both the racial and ethnic diversity of the physician workforce is improving, it is changing at a slower pace than the US population as a whole is diversifying.

In order to achieve a more diverse medical community at large, medical schools must actively cultivate a more diverse population of students and this is an area where there is still a need for progress. Women, ethnic, racial and religious minorities, and other historically underrepresented groups still face particular challenges; however, the prospects for medical professionals are excellent. Although there may be stumbling blocks and obstacles, the profession is and can be rewarding for people from all backgrounds. Medical schools welcome and value diversity. You will find, contribute to and benefit from the exchange of ideas and different points of view that your colleagues will bring to the classroom. The medical profession, though not always getting it right, is broadly committed to fostering the careers of all kinds of applicants.We encourage students who identify with any of these groups, or those that wish to broaden their scope of understanding, to research some of the resources that are available.

As a group of advisers, we are committed to working with and advising aspiring health care professionals and future medical students from all backgrounds and identities, and do our best to address your concerns about diversity in admissions, education and the profession as a whole.