Increasing Diversity in Medical Education

Abstract

A health professions learning environment that includes diverse learners enhances learning and attitudes and builds learners' confidence and ability to work with patients from all cultures – and these benefits extend to all students. Impacts extend to patients via increased access to care for the underserved, increased patient adherence, and other positive outcomes. This chapter presents a case study of a health network that sought to increase diversity and attract learners from groups traditionally underrepresented in medicine. The authors discuss strengths, weaknesses, and challenges related to strategies implemented. The epilogue contextualizes progress made and describes a third nursing strategy currently being undertaken.