A recent study published by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons showed low levels of diversity among minorities in orthopedic surgery, which remains one of the least diverse specialties in medicine.
Here are seven insights:
1. The demographic breakdown among orthopedic surgeon residents is:
• Hispanics and Latinos: 3.5 percent
• African Americans: 5.4 percent
• Asian Americans: 11.8 percent
• Women: 14.5 percent
2. Minority groups represent only 6 percent of the U.S. physicians, with orthopedic surgeons being predominantly Caucasian males.
3. The study stated patients who are treated by a healthcare provider with a similar background have an improved ability to communicate and convey essential medical information, and are more likely to be satisfied with their treatment.
4. African Americans and Hispanic and Latino orthopedic residents account for less than 5 percent of current trainees.
5. Providing early, required courses in orthopedic and musculoskeletal medicine during medical school has been shown to correlate with higher rates of application or orthopedic residency programs.
6. Active mentoring and access to role models are described as crucial factors that influence minorities' interests in orthopedic surgery.
7. Medical students who complete an orthopedic summer internship program and part of a target pipeline curriculum for underrepresented minorities are more likely to apply to orthopedic surgery residencies.