Abstract

The focus on diversity, equity and inclusion in medicine is crucial for representation, a sense of belonging, recognition of implicit biases and provision of quality patient care. The aim of this study was to determine perceptions of diversity in dermatopathology to provide a baseline for future efforts. A survey based on a validated questionnaire by AAMC was sent to ASDP members to collect demographics (gender, race, sexual orientation, disability, experience, practice setting) and evaluate 8 diversity statements on a 1-5 Likert scale. The demographics of 200/1331 (15%) respondents showed 49% males, 46% females and 1% transgender. 11% of respondents identifed as LGBTQI. The major racial distribution comprised of 61% Caucasians, 21% Asians, 9% Hispanics and 3% Blacks. Practicing dermatopathologists constituted 85% of the respondents with 62% trained in pathology, 70% U.S. graduates, 54% in community practice and 78% with >6 years in practice. 77% of the new-comers (<5 years) were from pathology background compared to their predecessors (>6 years in practice) with 43% having dermatology training. This trend also contributed to increased diversity in terms of gender (62% females) and race (42% non-Caucasians) among the newer generation. Dermatology-trained dermatopathologists were mostly white (76%) and male (58%). Distribution by region shows trends similar to national data with Pacific being the most racially diverse. Majority agreed that practice settings are diverse and the field is accepting. However, there was disagreement on 'if dermatopathology has a diversity problem.' The survey also identified a need for diverse leadership. The racial diversity in dermatopathology is largely contributed by pathology. The participants’ demographics create a potential inherent bias in the study, and the response rate limits the generalizability. However, the results are encouraging and highlight opportunities for increasing diversity in general and leadership in particular.

Financial Disclosure:
No current or relevant financial relationships exist.