The critical shortage of Black physicians in the United States, a longstanding issue rooted in historical discrimination, is facing new challenges as anti-diversity laws sweep across several states. Experts warn that these laws, coupled with the Supreme Court’s recent decision to dismantle affirmative action, could further exacerbate the problem and have far-reaching consequences for public health.
Despite making up 13.6% of the U.S. population, only 5.7% of physicians are Black, according to a 2022 survey by the American Association of Medical Colleges. This disparity has significant implications for Black community health, as studies show patients are more likely to seek treatment and receive proper care when their physician looks like them.
The shortage stems from various factors, including a diminished pipeline into sciences, the high cost of medical education, and bias in medical school admissions. Recent efforts to address the issue through mentorship programs and targeted recruitment are now running into obstacles as states like Florida, Texas, and others implement anti-diversity initiatives in higher education.
Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association, estimates that racial and ethnic health disparities cost over $451 billion annually. Dr. Brian Smedley, co-founder of the National Collaborative for Health Equity, emphasizes that diversity among health professionals is associated with better care for diverse populations, citing a 50% reduction in infant mortality when the delivering physician is African American.
As the debate over diversity in healthcare continues, experts stress the urgent need for solutions to ensure equitable care for all patients.
See “Anti-DEI laws could further exacerbate the already critical Black physician shortage” (July 17, 2024)
