Barriers and facilitators for under-represented in medicine (URiM) medical students interested in surgical sub-specialties

Abstract

BackgroundLittle is known on drivers and detractors underrepresented in medicine (URiM) medical students face. MethodsUsing the nominal group technique (NGT), we explored experiences that strengthen or weaken the enthusiasm to pursue a career in surgery among URiM medical students (October 2021–April 2022); participants voted on the three most important experiences (weight of 3 = top rated, = 1 for the lowest rated). Responses from NGT with at least one vote were weighted, ranked, and categorized. ResultsSeventeen students participated. Experiences that strengthen enthusiasm (36 responses with at least one vote) involved mentorship and role models (weighted sum percentage, 35%), demonstrating grit (15%), lifestyle (15%), patient interactions (14%), technical skills (11%), community and team (10%), and intellectual stimulation (1%). Experiences that weaken enthusiasm (33 responses with at least one vote) include the minority experience (weighted sum percentage, 51%), quality of life (25%), toxic environment (13%), lack of information (7%), and finances (5%). ConclusionsMentorship, demonstrating grit, and feeling a sense of community were important positive experiences or attitudes. The minority experience, toxic environment, perceptions of self-worth, and lifestyle misconceptions perceived by URiM must be addressed to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion.