The Under-Representation of Black Physicians in the U.S. Medical Field

The deficit of Black physicians in the United States results from a historical pattern of exclusion and institutional racism, systematically impeding Black Americans’ entry into the medical field. The American Medical Association (AMA), the once-dominant regulator of medicine, significantly obstructed Black practitioners by making membership contingent on acceptance into local medical societies that largely barred Black applicants. The AMA's influence, which extended into medical licensing and education, further solidified the barriers for aspiring Black doctors. The 1910 Flexner Report exacerbated the situation by advocating for the closure of many Black medical schools, operating under deeply ingrained prejudices. Consequently, the number of Black doctors plummeted, and existing schools could not meet the demand. Today, Black individuals constitute around 13% of the U.S. population but only about 5% of physicians. This imbalance contributes to ingrained mistrust and adversely affects health outcomes. Increased representation is essential for equity in healthcare access and delivery.