Championing Diversity in Medicine: Dr. T. Salewa Oseni's Journey
I wanted to be part of changing that. And then the second part of that is outreach to the community. And I have not found the problem to be a lack of qualified applicants.
Dr. T. Salewa Oseni is not just any breast surgical oncologist at Massachusetts General Hospital. With a 13-year background as a Navy surgeon, she brings a unique blend of discipline and compassion to her role. In this episode of 'Charged: Stories from the Women Leading Health Care', Dr. Oseni dives into her mission to transform the medical field to better reflect the diverse patient population it serves.
As the co-director of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee in the Mass General Department of Surgery, Dr. Oseni is at the forefront of efforts to create a more inclusive healthcare environment. She believes that a team that mirrors the diversity of its patients provides better care. But how do you achieve such a goal in a field traditionally dominated by homogeneity? Dr. Oseni discusses the barriers to diversity in medicine, including systemic biases and unequal opportunities.
She also touches on how the Covid-19 pandemic has shone a spotlight on health disparities in marginalized communities, making her work more crucial than ever. Despite these challenges, Dr. Oseni remains optimistic. She shares her thoughts on how everyone in the medical field can contribute to a more inclusive environment. Her passion for diversity and equity isn't just about filling quotas; it's about improving patient outcomes and fostering a healthcare system that truly serves everyone.
If you're interested in how diversity can enhance medical care or want to learn more about breaking down barriers in healthcare, this episode is a must-listen. Dr. Oseni's insights are not only informative but also inspiring, making you think about what you can do to promote inclusivity in your own sphere.