Tag: health disparities

Sara Phillips Sara Phillips (1 Posts)

Medical Student Contributor

University of Washington School of Medicine

 Sara is a fourth-year medical student at the University of Washington School of Medicine.




A Journey to Obstetrics & Gynecology Through Structural Racism in Maternal Outcomes

Published by Sara Phillips

Medical student Sara Phillips writes a personal reflection, grounded in scholarly literature, that details her exploration of racism as a mechanism for perpetuating disparities in maternal health outcomes. The piece traces discriminatory policies and actions undertaken by physicians and leaders in the field of obstetrics and gynecology to portray a historical origin for contemporary health inequities. Interacting with these grim stories and statistics, she reflects on what it means for her to seek out a career in OB/GYN to confront this prejudicial history and create a more just path forward.

The Difficult Patient

Published by Allen Betts

Medical student Allen Betts explores the often underrated effect of psychosocial determinants and the integral part they play in the influencing health and well-being. Read more to find out how he has come to appreciate the soft skills a physician gleans through patient encounters rather than through books.

Reproductive Planning During a State of Emergency

Published by Ritha Mera

Medical student Ritha Mera reviews responses to reproductive health care accesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mera writes as an advocate for women of color and highlights health disparities in vulnerable populations. Through drawing comparisons to past natural disasters and tracking the current pandemic’s harmful impacts on reproductive health care, Mera makes an argument for contraception and family planning to be included in emergency protocols for future disruptions.

“What’s Your Name?”: The Question That Can Make All the Difference

Published by Rasan Cherala

In line with my training, I have been taught to identify myself by name and position when introducing myself to patients. And so I do: I say, “My name is Rasan Cherala and I am a fourth-year medical student who will be taking care of you today.” This introduction is supposed to set the stage for a productive relationship.

Sarah Saad Sarah Saad (1 Posts)

Medical Student Contributing Writer

Albany Medical College

 I am a member of the Class of 2020 at Albany Medical College. I grew up in Brooklyn, NY as a first generation American, the eldest of 6 kids. My interests include public and global health, youth mentoring, swimming, traveling, and cooking foods from different cuisines.