Resources for Underserved Communities
Healthcare equity is a multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive and collaborative effort from healthcare professionals, institutions, policymakers, and the broader community. It's not only a matter of providing the same care to everyone but addressing the unique challenges and barriers some individuals or groups may face in accessing and receiving quality healthcare.
Why is Healthcare Equity Important?
It is crucial to address healthcare equity, especially in highly diverse regions, such as Southern California. Every patient is unique and requires individualized care, and it's essential to recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating patients. Ensuring patients receive appropriate care with humility and understanding irrespective of their race, ethnicity, age, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or economic status is central to taking steps toward healthcare equity.
Therefore, increasing the representation of healthcare professionals from historically marginalized groups is essential to ensure that their perspectives, lived experiences, and knowledge are leveraged when caring for and treating patients from minoritized groups.
When working toward healthcare equity, it is vital to create resources and pathways for students from minoritized communities. Diversifying the health professions is key to improving the health outcomes for underserved communities. Provided is a list of resources, opportunities, programs, and scholarships for minoritized individuals who desire to diversify the health professions.
Research:
- Significant Opportunities in Atmospheric Research and Science (SOAR): Summer Research for Underrepresented Communities
- UC Berkeley: Inclusive Excellence Summer Research Experience
Scholarships:
- Udall Foundation: Undergraduate Scholarship for Native Americans in Health
- Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium Scholarship
- National Medical Fellowships: Aya Locums Future Leaders in Medicine Scholarship
- United Health Foundation: Future Clinicians Scholarship Program
- NHMA National Hispanic Health Foundation: The Hispanic Health Professional Student Scholarship
- American Association of University Women (AAUW): Career Development Grants (Women of Color)
- National Medical Fellowships: Scholarship Search Engine
- Hispanic Scholarship Fund
Clubs/Organizations:
- Pre-Health Dreamers: Promoting Education and Healthcare Access for Immigrant Communities
- CSUSB: Medical and Pre-Health Student Society (MAPSS)
- GLMA: Health Professionals Advancing LGBTQ+ Equality
Information:
Information:
- John Hopkins University: International Applicants to US Medical School
- U.S. News: Tips for Medical School Applicants With Disabilities
Scholarships:
- GoodRx: Future Black Physicians and Physician Associates Scholarship
- AMA: Physicians of Tomorrow Scholarships (Underrepresented, Healthcare Equity, Black Cardiologist, DREAM MD)
- AACOM: Sherry R. Arnstein Underrepresented Minority Scholarship (Osteopathic Medicine)
- AOF: William G. Anderson, DO, Minority Scholarship
Clubs/Organizations:
Information:
- AACN: Enhancing Diversity in the Nursing Workforce
- WGU: Minorities in Nursing - Improving Workforce Diversity
Scholarships:
Clubs/Organizations:
Scholarships:
- GoodRx: Equity in Pharmacy Scholarship
-
Scholarship America: Good Neighbor Pharmacy Scholarship (Black Pharm Student)
-
National Medical Fellowships: Future Clinician Scholarship Program
Clubs/Organizations:
Scholarships:
-
AAHD Frederick J. Krause Scholarship on Health and Disability (Disabled Students)
- BigFuture: Joyce Nichols Memorial Scholarship (Black PA Students)
- MyPANetwork: PALH Scholarship (Latino PA)
- Indian Health Service Preparatory Scholarship Program (Native American)
Clubs/Organizations:
- National Society of Black Physician Assistants (NSBPA)
- Physician Associates for Latino Health (PALH):
Scholarships:
- Colgate-Palmolive/NMF Dental Leadership Program (Need-Based, Underrepresented)
- Hispanic Dental Association Foundation: Crest + Oral-B Bridges Scholarship (Hispanic/Latino)
Clubs: