International Journal of Women's Dermatology (Jan 2020)
Supporting underrepresented minority women in academic dermatology,
Abstract
The lack of underrepresented minorities in medicine (UIM) in dermatology has been well established, but the challenges faced by UIM women in dermatology have not yet been explored. UIM women belong simultaneously to more than one underrepresented group and therefore face complex challenges that are common to women and underrepresented minorities. Yet, the literature that focuses explicitly on UIM women as a group is scarce. This commentary provides insight into some of the challenges faced by UIM women in academic dermatology and provides specific recommendations to support these women through mentorship, professional development, and legitimization of their contributions to institutional diversity and service efforts. Keywords: Women in medicine, Women in dermatology, Underrepresented minorities in medicine, Mentorship, Female physicians, Academic medicine