Understanding the experience of Latinas in medical education: A qualitative study

Background: Despite increased recruitment of Latina medical students, the percentage of Latina physicians has remained stagnant, suggesting unique retentive barriers affecting this population. Discriminatory experiences involving bias may contribute to difficulties in the retention and advancement of Latinas in medicine. This qualitative analysis aimed to explore thematic barriers prevalent among Latinas throughout their medical training in the United States.

Methods: An anonymous online survey was distributed to Latinas in the continental United States from June 22 to August 12, 2022. Eligibility criteria included self-identifying as Hispanic/Latina, female/woman, and being currently enrolled in or graduated from medical school, residency, or fellowship in the United States in the past 10 years. Content and thematic analyses were done on 602 responses across seven open-ended survey questions.

Results: Data were categorized into three main themes: (1) barriers stemming from limited social, cultural, and financial capital; (2) experiences of discrimination, bias, and perceptions of being undervalued; and (3) burdens resulting in notable mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety. Many women questioned their place in medicine throughout training and the value of the sacrifice and trauma endured.

Conclusion: This is the first qualitative study evaluating the experiences of Latinas throughout medical training, revealing that they experience disproportionate barriers and discriminatory experiences from both colleagues and patients. Despite calls to enhance institutional climates of diversity, there continues to be an acute need for the reform of medical education to promote an inclusive culture and provide adequate mentorship to marginalized trainees.