A Look at the Past, Present, and Future of DEI Medical Education Initiatives

Erynne A. Faucett, MD, a pediatric otolaryngologist in the department of otolaryngology at UC Davis Health in Sacramento, Calif., maintained that faculty members should be educated on anti-racism initiatives and the need to increase diversity in the field and contribute to medical students’ journeys to finding otolaryngology. URiM faculty are more likely to uphold anti-racism initiatives, build research programs focused on healthcare disparities, and support minority students (Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2021. doi:10.1177/0194599820960722). “It’s important not to overly burden URiM faculty on these efforts and ensure that initiatives are spread among all faculty,” she said. “Building diversity cannot be the sole responsibility of URiM faculty.”

Jennifer A. Villwock, MD, an associate professor of otolaryngology at University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City, Kan., recommends funding URiM student experiences, outreach programs for middle and high school students, and mentorship programs. Schools should clearly state their support for diversity and equity on their websites. Measurable outcomes from these initiatives that help define success should be identified and tracked from the beginning to show progress.