12 November 2024 1 minute read
Dorian MoodyMajor: Health Science
Classification: Senior
What health disparity are you interested in solving and why?
I am interested in solving health disparities that disproportionately impact underserved communities. I am particularly committed to resolving dermatological disparities in care, especially for patients with skin of color. Historically, dermatology has lacked diverse representation in research and education, leading to frequent misdiagnoses and inadequate treatment for conditions that present differently on darker skin tones. I’ve witnessed this gap firsthand through both personal experiences in my childhood and my work in healthcare settings. This disparity not only affects health outcomes but also undermines trust in the healthcare system within communities of color. In addition to addressing dermatological care for skin of color, I am dedicated to tackling the broader barriers to healthcare access for underserved populations. Social determinants of health such as financial constraints, limited healthcare facilities, and transportation challenges—can prevent people from receiving essential care. By addressing these barriers, I hope to improve access to healthcare for these communities. I am also passionate about advocating for breast cancer prevention. In many underserved communities, women face delays in screenings or a lack of awareness about early detection, putting them at greater risk. I want to promote access to screenings, enhance education on breast health, and expand early intervention programs to reduce mortality rates and improve outcomes in communities where breast cancer prevention efforts have been limited. Each of these goals reflects my vision of fostering equity and rebuilding trust in healthcare, especially for those who have been historically underserved.