61710 Dermatology pathways programs and increasing provider representation

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

9-1-2025

Publication Title

J Am Acad Dermatol

Abstract

Background: Dermatology is one of the least diverse medical specialties (1). Pathways programs (PP) have emerged as a key strategy to increase representation (2). In these programs, medical students are connected with dermatology resources, mentorship, and opportunities. We sought to evaluate the availability of PP and their efficacy in matching underrepresented in medicine (URiM) medical students into dermatology. Methods: U.S. dermatology residency programs completed electronic surveys about departmental PP. We compared application and match rates of URiM students between departments with and without PP. Results: Of the 36 programs surveyed, 33.3% (n=12) reported having PP. Acceptance criterion differed by PP: 3 (25%) were based on self-identified race, 3 (25%) on broader URiM definitions (race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, sexual/gender identity), 3 (25%) had open acceptance, and 3 (25%) as other/do not know. None of the programs adjusted their criteria following the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling prohibiting race-based admissions in higher education. Of the PP with data available, half (n=5/10, 50%) received 1-5 applicants, with the majority (n=6/10, 60%) accepting 1-5 students. 7 PP provided data on their match. 100% (n=7/7) had pathways students apply into dermatology, and 71.4% (n=5/7) had pathways students match into dermatology. Among those without PP, 77.8% (n=6/9) reported URiM students applied to dermatology, and 60% (n=6/10) reported URiM students successfully matched. Conclusion: These findings highlight variability in PP across dermatology and their possible impact on URiM resident application and match. There remains a need to understand PP’s role in supporting student journeys into dermatology and how their impact can be broadened.

Volume

93

First Page

AB167

Find It @ Sladen

Share

COinS