Skin of color representation in medical education: An analysis of popular preparatory materials used for United States Medical Licensing Examinations

Underrepresentation of skin of color in medical education: An updated analysis of popular question banks

“…To the Editor: We laud Meckley et al 1 for expanding upon our findings from our study ''Skin of color representation in medical education: An analysis of popular preparatory materials used for United States Medical Licensing Examinations'' (USMLE). 2 Their analysis of skin of color (SoC) images in AMBOSS Step 1, Kaplan Step 1, USMLERx Step 1 Qmax, and self-assessment examinations provided by the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) is undoubtedly an enormous addition to our original findings and to the contributions by Mitello et al 3 Analysis of the limitations to these resources is paramount to improving medical education. In their study, Meckley et al 1 reached the same conclusion regarding the lack of SoC images in commonly used USMLE preparatory resources.…”

“…Given the importance of the additional 23 dermatologic diagnoses identified with at least 1 SoC image in the Meckley et al 1 question bank analysis, our team would like to contribute an updated analysis of the original data from our study. 2 Using our initial methodology, 2 images from the dermatology sections of the UWorld question bank for USMLE Step 1 and the UWorld question bank for USMLE Step 2 CK (Clinical Knowledge) were assessed to include updated data. Two authors (K.C., M.M.)…”

Encouraging the next generation of skin of color researchers: Funding skin of color research in medical school and residency

“…1 Residency education on skin of color topics is likely inadequate, 2 which may leave dermatology residents underprepared to care for diverse patient populations. This deficiency, coupled with a lack of diversity in education materials, [3][4][5] can lead to cognitive biases in clinical practice that perpetuate disparities. Okoji and Lipoff also suggest that it is important to broaden interest in skin of color among dermatology residents.…”

Improving cultural competency and practicing cultural humility in dermatologic training: Skin of color education and board certification

“…An underrepresentation of dark skin was found in the United States Medical Licensing Examinations Step 1 guides, which may reflect exam distributions. 5 The lack of cultural humility in the training paradigm prevents dermatologists from effectively treating darker-skinned patients and perpetuates patients' historically rooted fears of exploitation. 2 Thus, the mastery of skin of color must improve to complement AAD diversity foci.…”