Does the AAMC's Definition of "Underrepresented in Medicine" Promote Justice and Inclusivity?
Wendy A Clay1, Donna H Jackson2, Kevin A Harris3
1Resident physician in the Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine's psychiatry residency program in Dayton, Ohio.
Abstract:
In 2003, the Association of American Medical Colleges reframed the concept underrepresented minorities as underrepresented in medicine (URiM), which defines representation in medicine relative to representation in the US population. Schools are permitted to construct URiM definitions, suggesting the importance of regarding them as fluid works in progress as US demographics evolve. Where medical school admissions processes consider applicants' backgrounds and experiences of identity minoritization to be valuable, progress toward inclusive representation has been made. This article considers whether school-based URiM definitions are ethically sufficient and canvasses possible next steps in realizing equitable representation in medical education.
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