186 Factors causing lack of diversity in dermatology residency programs: Medical students’ perspectives

Abstract

The lack of racial and ethnic diversity that exists in the field of dermatology is gaining attention amongst influential dermatologic organizations and patients. Approximately 3% of dermatologists in the United States are black, and 4.2% are Hispanic, compared with 12.8% and 16.3%, respectively, of the total population. Gaining a student perspective may help residency programs determine what drives medical students specialty choices. Surveys were distributed to medical students nationally. Responses were analyzed using multivariable logistical regression to identify significant differences between students of different sexes, specialty preference, and underrepresented minority status. 176 surveys have been completed (n=176; 127 women). 24% of students identified as underrepresented minorities (URMs) per AAMC guidelines. 10% of students reported interest in dermatology. Students interested in dermatology were more likely than their peers to place high importance on work life balance (p=.009) and earning potential (p=.047), were more likely to have their specialty choice be influenced by their Step 1 score (p<.0001), were more likely to have exposure to dermatology (p<.0001), and were more likely to have been interested in dermatology prior to entering medical school (p<.0001). URMs were more likely to be deterred from pursuing a specialty based on amount of expected research (p=.037) and were more likely to have been exposed to dermatology than other students (p=.013). Interim analysis demonstrates exposure to dermatology and interest in dermatology prior to medical school are correlated with a current interest in dermatology. While responses show URMs are more likely to have exposure to clinical dermatology, further increasing early exposure may be key to increasing URM interest in the field. The heavy emphasis on research in dermatology may also represent a deterrent to URM applicants.