53rd Annual Walter J. Zeiter Lecture and Awards Video Presentation, Julie K. Silver, MD, FAAPMR-Session Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this video, Dr. Julie Silver discusses the importance of addressing workforce disparities and patient care disparities in medicine, specifically in the field of physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R). She presents compelling data regarding the underrepresentation of women and minorities in various aspects of healthcare, such as clinical trials, clinical practice guidelines, and leadership positions. Dr. Silver emphasizes the need for inclusive representation at all levels, from research to decision-making bodies, in order to ensure equitable patient care and diverse perspectives in healthcare. She also highlights the role of mentoring and the importance of supporting individuals from underrepresented groups. Dr. Silver discusses the impact of financial stress, compensation gaps, and recognition disparities on healthcare providers, particularly women physicians. Additionally, she addresses the issue of bias in editorial positions and calls for increased diversity and inclusion in medical societies and journals. Dr. Silver encourages individuals to conduct audits of publishing metrics and actively work to close gaps in representation. She recommends a multi-pronged approach to addressing these disparities, including mentorship, policy changes, and intentional efforts to create a more diverse and inclusive healthcare system.

Keywords

workforce disparities

patient care disparities

medicine

physical medicine and rehabilitation

underrepresentation

clinical trials

leadership positions

diverse perspectives

women physicians

diversity and inclusion