Melanin in Medicine

From the UNCG directory, Sep 7, 2026

Our club's primary mission sets us apart as we aim to diversify the healthcare industry by providing tailored guidance, connections, support, and exposure to minority women undergraduate students. This commitment is underscored by compelling statistics: According to CNN (2023), only about 5.7% of physicians in the United States identify as Black or African American, despite comprising 12% of the US population. This disparity is mirrored in the representation of minority women in roles like physician assistants, physical therapists, doctors, etc. Additionally, research from the American Bar Association reveals that Black individuals often do not receive healthcare of equal quality compared to their white counterparts, highlighting the importance of having providers who share their background. Our goal is to address these discrepancies by introducing minority women students to healthcare careers, encouraging their involvement in volunteering, creating meaningful connections, helping them build strong portfolios, and guiding them toward fulfilling their future aspirations.