12 November 2024 < minute read
Leila McDonnaugh-EaddyMajor: Biology
Classification: Senior
What health disparity are you interested in solving and why?
As an aspiring surgeon, it is my mission to end racial disparities in the use of surgical procedures because every patient, regardless of their racial or ethnic background, deserves equitable access to high-quality care. Surgical procedures are often life-saving, yet we know that racial minorities—particularly Black, Hispanic, and Indigenous populations—are less likely to receive timely or appropriate surgical interventions, even when clinically indicated. This disparity is not just a matter of access to care, but also reflects deeply rooted biases and structural inequities within our healthcare system. From delayed diagnoses and referrals to differences in treatment recommendations, these inequities lead to worse outcomes and perpetuate cycles of poor health in marginalized communities. As a future surgeon, I am committed to addressing these disparities by advocating for systemic changes that ensure equal access to surgical care, actively confronting implicit biases in my own practice, and promoting diversity within the surgical field to better reflect the communities we serve. By doing so, I believe we can move toward a future where surgical decisions are made based solely on the needs of the patient, not influenced by their race or socioeconomic status.