Health Disparities Among Hispanic Patients With Type 2 Diabetes in the United States: An Educational Workshop

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a major health concern for Hispanic populations in the United States. Hispanic patients experience a higher prevalence of T2D and more severe outcomes than non-Hispanic White populations, driven largely by systemic and structural factors such as limited access to care, insurance coverage gaps, language barriers, and social determinants of health. Access to culturally responsive and humility-based health care approaches remains limited, hindering patient-centered care.

Using the 6-step Kern model, we designed, implemented, and evaluated a 60-minute interactive workshop to educate first- and second-year preclinical medical students about T2D in Hispanic patients. The workshop included a presentation, case-based discussions, a large-group debriefing, and pre- and postsession evaluations. Statistical analysis assessed changes in participant knowledge and confidence.

Following an initial virtual pilot session, the revised curriculum was delivered in person. Medical students completed pre- and postsession evaluations. The Mann-Whitney U test demonstrated significant increases in confidence across all learning objectives (P < .01). Knowledge scores also improved from pre- to postsession evaluations. Overall, 91% of participants rated the workshop as good or excellent. Feedback highlighted the value of content and structure, with suggestions to expand case discussions and introduce more varied activities.

The workshop effectively demonstrated an increase in medical student awareness of preventing and managing T2D among Hispanic patients. It emphasized cultural humility and provided a framework for exploring complex social, cultural, and structural factors. This workshop can be adapted for prehealth students, residents, or practicing physicians working with Hispanic patients.