The COVID-19 pandemic drastically impacted the United States healthcare system and continues to leave an impact on many populations. In addition, the recent social justice movement has prompted many discussions about health disparities and health equity in conjunction with the pandemic. One trend emerging from this intersection, is an increase in medical school applicants, as the next generation of healthcare providers and leaders look to address health disparities and prepare the healthcare system for the next pandemic. According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, 2021 saw a record-setting 17.8% increase in medical school applicants, with the applicants creating the most diverse applicant pool. Within this applicant class, women’s presence also saw a sharp increase of 5.9% in accepted applicants compared to 2020. Additionally, the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates that the STEM industry will grow by 13% in the next decade. Comparatively, non-STEM industries will only grow by 7.5% in that time frame. With the industry expected to rapidly expand, providing future healthcare leaders and providers with clinical and non-clinical career paths is increasingly important as the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the need for multifaceted approaches in healthcare, and professionals with diverse experiences. Non-clinical career paths for students, from undergrad to medical school, are often lesser-known options to pursue, therefore this Runway Roundtable will discuss non-clinical career paths for students considering or pursuing medicine. Panelist will also discuss their experiences entering non-clinical careers as female professionals, and the changing healthcare landscape in the U.S.
Back to All Events