African American and White Physicians: A Comparison of Satisfaction with Medical Education, Professional Careers, and Research Activities

Abstract

Background: Given the disparity between proportions of minority in the general population and in the physician workforce and the projected increase in the minority population, it is important and timely to examine factors that contribute to satisfaction of minority physicians. Purpose: To examine similarities and differences between African American and White physicians in their satisfaction with medical school, their medical careers, and their professional and research activities and achievements.Methods: A questionnaire was mailed to the 148 active African American graduates of Jefferson Medical College (1960 to 1995). Control group was 148 active White classmates matched as to gender, year of graduation, and scores on Step 2 of the United States Medical Licensing Examination (formerly Part 2 of the National Board). Results: Overall response rate-61% (African Americans-59%, White control group-63%). Both groups were equally satisfied with medical education, careers, and professional and research activities. No differences were noted between the groups in satisfaction with medical school financial support, preparation for a medical career, the educational experience and academic environment, medical careers, and practice incomes. African Americans reported greater dissatisfaction than Whites with interactions with medical school faculty and administrators and with the medical school social environment. African Americans were less likely than Whites to recommend Jefferson to minority applicants and to contribute to annual alumni giving. More African Americans than Whites practiced medicine in economically deprived areas and cared for poor minority patients. Conclusions: African American respondents were comparable with White respondents as to their medical careers, professional activities, and achievements as physicians. Their practice patterns reflected a greater sense of community need and involvement than their White counterparts. The sense of dissatisfaction with the social environment of medical school noted by African American respondents seems to persist during their professional careers.