377 Trends in racial diversity of dermatology residency applicants from 2016-2020

Disparities in racial diversity the field of dermatology continue to persist given that has second lowest percentage underrepresented minorities (URM), only orthopedic surgery. This study aims investigate any trends representation residency applicants over a five-year period. Dermatology applicant race data was extracted from Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) Association American Medical Colleges (AAMC) for application seasons 2016-2020 retrospective review study. There an overall increase number during Prior 2018 (midpoint study) 14.1% identified as URM compared 16.2% after 2018, although this difference not statistically significant (p=0.25). Our findings suggest period analyzed remained relatively similar, with non-statistically applicants. Outlining current may be helpful identifying factors affecting disparity within field. Factors explain phenomenon include discordance between medical school accepted and those who pursue dermatology, intrinsic competitive nature specialty deter students applying residency, fees travel costs interviews, inadequate mentorship/recruitment efforts, emphasis on United States Licensing Examination scores. is hope are becoming more racially diverse improved URMs. Dermatologists should mindful efforts promote cultural order able address dermatologic concerns among increasingly patient populations..