ABSTRACT
Many programs have been designed to increase the number of minorities participating in medical education. Despite these programs, the number of underrepresented minorities (URMs) has never reached the level of representation as is noted in the general census reporting of 12-13%.Using a focused literature review methodology, the Cobb Institute W. Montague Cobb Institute/NMA Health Institute (The Cobb Institute)1 reviewed articles from medical and social science publications to elucidate the causes for the dearth of URMs. Multiple articles have been written to examine this phenomenon and they have identified many challenges. Factors identified include stigmata and stereotyping, growing up in under resourced communities, sub-standard public education opportunities, lack of role models and mentors, lower standardized test scores, and admissions committee practices; all negatively impact URMs on the path to graduate medical education. The W. Montague Cobb Institute/NMA Health Institute (The Cobb Institute) has identified many common impediments along the path to matriculation and offer recommendations and strategies to address the URM matriculation issue. The Cobb Institute concluded there is a substantial need to invest more in 'working' programs with proven outcomes aimed at increasing admittance into medical schools for black males in particular and URMs in general. PURPOSE: The purpose of this paper is to discuss and identify effective programs and strategies used to increase admissions of underrepresented minorities (URM) in general, and black males in particular, into medical school. We will examine best practices and make recommendations regarding successful actions which can lead to increasing black males in the admissions process.
