Legacy: A Black Physician Reckons with Racism in Medicine

Prospective Doctor (from MedSchoolCoach)

Dr. Erkeda DeRouen talks to Dr. Uché Blackstock, an American emergency physician and former associate professor of emergency medicine at the New York University School of Medicine. They discuss the Flexner Report, the need for diversity in healthcare, and the deep inequities that still exist in the U.S. healthcare system.

• [00:00] Introduction
• [01:45] Why Dr. Blackstock Chose to Pursue Medicine
• [04:21] The Racial Health Inequities in America Today
• [07:34] Dr. Blackstock’s Inspiration For Writing a Book on Health Inequities
• [09:19] What is the Flexner Report?
• [12:13] The Need Diversity in Healthcare
• [15:15] All the Things They Don’t Teach in Med School
• [18:34] Things That Could Potentially Improve American Healthcare
• [22:50] Giving Women and People of Color a Voice
• [24:09] Advice for Aspiring Physicians
• [25:10] Parting Thoughts

Navigating Unconventional Paths in Medicine

Dr. Blackstock talks about the benefits of following the unconventional path on your journey to medicine. Your journey will not be a straight line, so it’s okay to break away from traditional molds and find unique ways to contribute to the healthcare system. Dr. Blackstock shares pivotal moments in her career, from leaving academic medicine to starting her own company and becoming an MSNBC medical contributor. Her story serves as a testament to the diverse paths available to physicians and the impact they can have outside traditional roles.

Health Equity and Why It Matters

Research has shown time and again that a more diverse physician workforce may lead to better patient outcomes and satisfaction. According to Dr. Blackstock, this can only be possible if we make a concerted effort to increase representation of diverse racial and ethnic groups among trainee physicians. Reflecting on her experiences, Dr. Blackstock emphasizes the systemic barriers faced by Black physicians. She sheds light on historical factors, such as the Flexner Report, that contribute to the current underrepresentation of Black physicians. In the chapter, "All the Things They Didn't Teach Me," Dr. Blackstock discusses the need for a revamped medical curriculum. She advocates for integrated learning on health disparities, anti-racism, and social determinants of health.

Grab a copy of Dr. Blackstock’s book Legacy on Amazon and reach out to her via Twitter, Instagram, and her Website for more details about his work.

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