Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology (Dec 2023)
Skin Inclusion: Addressing Deficits in Medical Education to Promote Diversity in Dermatological Diagnosis and Treatment
Abstract
George Ongoro,* Zoe Avestruz,* Sandra Stover* University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth, MN, USA*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Sandra Stover, Department of Family Medicine and Biobehavioral Health, University of Minnesota Duluth Campus, 155 SMed, 1035 University Drive, Duluth, MN, 55812-3031, USA, Tel +1 218-726-6981, Fax +1 218-726-7699, Email [email protected]: Dermatological conditions impact many people globally, including those with melanin-rich skin. However, insufficient medical education contributes to delayed diagnoses, misdiagnoses, and inadequate treatment for these conditions. This literature review aims to identify and address gaps in dermatological education for melanin skin. Current research reveals that medical school curricula inadequately cover these conditions, leading to low confidence among students in diagnosing and treating them. This educational deficiency results in healthcare disparities, as melanin skin patients experience inferior outcomes. Misdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis are common due to the lack of training, particularly for conditions like keloids, vitiligo, and lupus erythematosus, which require a specialized understanding of melanin-rich skin. These errors can lead to suboptimal treatment, increased healthcare costs, and negative health outcomes. Additionally, limited representation of melanin skin in clinical studies hampers understanding and treatment options. To address these issues, it is recommended to enhance dermatological education on melanin skin in medical schools, utilize culturally responsive teaching methods, allocate research funds for melanin skin investigations, incorporate telemedicine and artificial intelligence, develop melanin-specific guidelines, and increase diversity in the healthcare workforce. Addressing these educational deficits is crucial for diverse and equitable dermatological care, improved healthcare outcomes, and reduced disparities for individuals with melanin-rich skin.Keywords: dermatological education, melanin-rich skin, medical school curricula, dermatological guidelines, diversity in healthcare workforce
