Diversity, equity, and inclusivity in vascular surgical education

Abstract

The decline in diversity in medical education, following the Supreme Court’s 2023 ruling against race-based affirmative action, exacerbates existing health disparities. With decreasing enrollment of underrepresented groups in medical schools, residency attrition, and gaps in diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) standards, urgent efforts are needed to address systemic inequities in medical training and patient care. Vascular surgery has made important progress in increasing diversity within its training programs, but there is still much work to be done to create a truly inclusive environment. While there has been growth in the representation of women within vascular surgery, the proportion of underrepresented in medicine (UriM) physicians has not kept pace. Addressing the lack of diversity in vascular surgery requires a multi-pronged approach focused on recruitment, retention, and the creation of an inclusive learning and work environment. Establishing an inclusive environment goes beyond recruitment; it requires fostering a culture where all trainees and faculty feel valued and heard. Through targeted initiatives, commitment to transparency, and systemic changes to academic and clinical environments, the field can make substantial strides in workforce diversity and in turn addressing disparities.