The hematology/oncology workforce continues to struggle with adequate representation of racial and ethnic minorities. To promote the development of an oncology workforce that reflects the demographics of the population it serves, ASCO has introduced its Strategic Plan for Increasing Racial & Ethnic Diversity in the Oncology Workforce.
The plan builds on ASCO’s existing work to promote diversity in the oncology workforce, primarily through the Diversity in Oncology Initiative programs, which provide award opportunities for medical students and residents who self-identify as underrepresented minorities.
The new 3-year strategic plan has three primary goals: (1) establish a longitudinal pathway for increasing workforce diversity; (2) enhance ASCO leadership diversity; and (3) integrate a focus on diversity across ASCO programs and policies. The Strategic Plan for Increasing Racial & Ethnic Diversity in the Oncology Workforce has been developed to establish short-term, achievable goals that will promote the development of an oncology workforce that is culturally competent and equipped to care for disparate populations.
To read the full plan, visit www.asco.org/practice-guidelines/cancer-care-initiatives/diversity-oncology-initiative. ■
© 2017. American Society of Clinical Oncology. All rights reserved.
