Building an ethnically and racially diverse neurology workforce

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Health Equity
• Workforce Diversity

Background:

• Growing patient population diversity necessitates racial and ethnic diversity in the neurology workforce.
• The field of neurology faces challenges including inadequate trainee numbers, bias against minoritized groups, and the 'diversity tax'.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the critical need for racial and ethnic diversity in the neurology workforce.
• To identify challenges hindering diversity in neurology.
• To propose actionable steps for improving diversity and inclusion.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and analysis of current diversity initiatives in neurology.
• Examination of systemic barriers impacting minoritized individuals in the field.
• Synthesis of recommendations for enhancing diversity and equity.

Main Results:

• Neurology has historically lagged in achieving workforce diversity.
• Key challenges include recruitment, retention, bias, and service burden on minoritized individuals.
• Existing efforts, while important, are insufficient to address the scale of the problem.

Conclusions:

• Sustained efforts are needed to promote diversity in neurology.
• Recommendations include creating diversity leadership roles, robust pipeline programs, and aggressive recruitment/retention strategies.
• A fundamental cultural shift is required to embed diversity as a core value in neurology.