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- Presentation
How the AAD Supports Diversity, Inclusion and Equity in Dermatology
Description
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) has a long-standing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in dermatology, significantly bolstered by the events of 2020, which led to the adoption of a three-year DEI plan. This initiative aims to address healthcare disparities, particularly affecting racial and ethnic minorities, and emphasizes a broad definition of diversity encompassing various characteristics such as race, gender identity, and religious beliefs. Key goals of the plan include promoting diverse representation within the Academy, enhancing dermatologic education to cover health disparities, advocating for patient representation in research, and increasing the number of underrepresented minority dermatologists. Progress over the past three years includes an increase in underrepresented minority representation within leadership positions and event programming, a rise in articles focused on DEI in dermatology journals, and the introduction of specialized curricula and workshops aimed at fostering diversity among dermatology residents. Furthermore, initiatives concerning the recruitment and retention of minority students in dermatology have led to notable increases in residency demographics. The AAD's advocacy agenda has elevated diversity in the dermatology workforce as a priority and includes ongoing support for initiatives that enhance access to care for underserved populations. Looking ahead, the next phase of the DEI program will focus on inclusive leadership training and strategic planning for continued progress, supported by significant corporate funding.
View moreConclusions
- The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) has increased diversity within its leadership and governance structures, with underrepresented minority (URiM) representation rising from 5.4% in 2020 to 9.2% in 2022.
- The number of URiM speakers at AAD annual meetings has increased by 38% from 2019 to 2023.
- There was a significant increase in skin of color and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) topics presented at AAD annual meetings, raising from 3 to 12 such topics.
- Research articles related to DEI published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology increased from 14 in 2020 to 52 in 2022.
- A skin of color curriculum was launched in 2021 and has been accessed by over 5,000 members, indicating a growing focus on diverse dermatological education.
- The number of dermatology residents identifying as Hispanic or Black has improved significantly, from 7.7% to 12.6% for Hispanic/Latinx and from 4.8% to 5.7% for Black residents between 2020 and 2022.
- Programs targeting underrepresented minority (URM) high school and college students were established, resulting in a cumulative total of more than 6,700 'pipeline' students engaged by 2022.
- The AAD received substantial industry funding of nearly $3 million over the past three years, allowing enhancement of DEI initiatives.
- The AAD is set to continue focusing on equity matters, proposing ongoing inclusive leadership training and strategy revisions for future improvement.
- American Academy of Dermatology; AAD. Tracking Pathways Impact (Baseline: 2018, AAD Diversity in Dermatology Plan launch: 2020, Pathways Launched: 2021).
- American Academy of Dermatology; AAD. 3-Year Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Dermatology Plan Approved in 2020.