Diminished Representation: Fewer Students of Color Admitted to Med School Since Supreme Court Decision
IN BRIEF: Recently released enrollment data shows that people of color are significantly underrepresented in the first medical school class admitted since the Supreme Court ruled that Harvard’s and the University of North Carolina’s limited consideration of race in admissions was unconstitutional.
WHY IT MATTERS: Physicians from underrepresented groups are more likely to practice in medically underserved communities. With over 83 million Americans already living in areas that lack reliable access to primary care physicians, these enrollment trends could worsen health disparities in the United States, especially for rural communities.
ON THE HORIZON: As government programs meant to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion come under attack by the Trump administration, leaders from every sector will need to take initiative to advance equality.
Everyone has a role to play, from philanthropists to community advocates, and many organizations and individuals have already stepped up. For example, Bloomberg Philanthropies announced a $600 million gift to historically Black medical schools several months ago, and Dr. Uché Blackstock shared her personal experience to raise awareness of the issue.
LDF AT WORK: LDF recognizes that talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. That is why the organization released a report offering recommendations for advancing equal educational opportunities to help colleges and universities (and their professional schools) navigate the legal landscape in the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision.
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