7. Advocate and get involved. “The onus is on us to be vocal and be advocates and push back,” says Dr. Blanco, who was previously associate dean for diversity enhancement at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York City. “How can we use our voice as physicians to amplify the voices of our patients and our needs as a community?” By participating in admissions committees, spreading the word about the specialty and finding creative ways to help address the specialty’s workforce shortage, she says.
Shared Backgrounds May Help Build Trust Between Patients & Providers
Pancy Brown, 23, of New York City, became a rheumatology patient at the age of 10, when she began treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus and lupus nephritis.
Ms. Brown
One aspect of care that’s been important to her is connecting with a provider who has a similar racial background. Ms. Brown formed a bond with Alisha Akinsete, MD, a pediatric rheumatologist formerly with Montefiore Medical Center, The Bronx, N.Y., and now with the Hospital for Special Surgery, New York City. “Having a provider with a similar racial or ethnic background is important because … I feel like we can relate to each other. From a patient’s point of view, it’s easier to communicate your questions and concerns because you know you’re around someone who’s willing to listen to you,” Ms. Brown says.
Ms. Brown also appreciates that Dr. Akinsete showed that she cared about her—not just her lab numbers, but as a person overall.
Such connections with patients can play a role in improving care, says Dr. Wright, a pediatric rheumatologist. “There are certain conversations I can have when patients share a similar cultural experience,” she says. “Sometimes, that allows me to get more buy-in.” For example, she may share a personal story with a teen who’s struggling to manage their rheumatic disease or take their medications as they should.
