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Dermatology Medical Literacy and Advocacy Program: Fostering Diversity in Dermatology while Empowering Communities
The Dermatology Medical Literacy and Advocacy (DMLA) program aims to advance diversity within dermatology by engaging underrepresented undergraduate students and equipping them with essential knowledge and skills. Through a blend of lectures, hands-on workshops, and discussions on health disparities, DMLA fosters a more inclusive pipeline into the field while preparing participants to address the needs of underserved communities. The program emphasizes not only clinical competence but also the importance of community engagement, empowering students to share their knowledge and advocate for dermatological health within their communities. This study analyzes pre- and post-course survey data to evaluate improvements in participants’ knowledge of dermatological conditions, confidence in clinical skills, and understanding of health disparities. Results show significant gains in these areas, reflecting the effectiveness of the program’s structure. While progress in community engagement was modest, the program’s evolving focus on outreach aims to better prepare participants for future roles as advocates. These findings highlight the DMLA program’s role in promoting both diversity and health equity, with future iterations focused on expanding outreach opportunities and enhancing participant readiness for community-based advocacy.