A JAMA Network Open paper calls for medical schools to adopt ‘alternative strategies’ to maintain racial diversity post the Supreme Court’s 2023 ruling against affirmative action, suggesting race-neutral approaches like increased scholarship support.
Researchers noted a 11% decline in Black and Hispanic medical student matriculation following the affirmative action decision, while Asian and white student admissions increased, highlighting threats to health equity.
Dr. Natalie Florescu, lead author, advocates for initiatives like funding minority-serving institutions and targeted programs to create equitable medical education pathways, though these approaches may face legal scrutiny for potentially being race-based preferences.