WASHINGTON, D.C., June 29, 2023 — “The American Heart Association is concerned about the impact that today’s Supreme Court decision on affirmative action may have on the progress that has been made to diversify the ranks of college and graduate school students pursuing professions including health care and cardiology. We believe that growing a diverse, culturally competent health care workforce is essential to delivering high-value care and improving the health of all communities nationwide.
“Racial and ethnic minority groups make up more than 40 percent of the U.S. population, but they currently represent a far smaller proportion of clinicians nationwide. It should come as no surprise that nearly 1 in 4 Black people, and nearly 1 in 5 Latino/Hispanic people, report avoiding medical care due to concern of being discriminated against or treated poorly. There is a critical need to recruit a health care workforce that reflects the diversity of our nation, and to improve the training of health care providers to enhance their understanding of patients' clinical and psychosocial needs.
“The Association is dedicated to addressing diversity in this nation’s clinical workforce. We are expanding diversity-research opportunities for under-represented racial and ethnic groups in science and medicine; leveraging our clinical registry programs to capture data and create new scientific knowledge on the health effects of social determinants of health and disparities in health outcomes among racial and ethnic groups; and creating digital learning opportunities for clinicians, health professionals and scientists to reverse structural racism and improve health outcomes for all.
“These efforts and others become immensely more difficult when public policies do not align with the goals of ensuring a diverse health care workforce and eliminating health disparities. This misalignment jeopardizes the health of everyone in our country.”
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Steve Weiss: 202-607-0911; steve.weiss@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
