Black History Month 2023

February is Black History Month – an opportunity to both celebrate and look ahead. In healthcare, there is a notable lack of Black representation in active doctors and physicians. According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, only 5% of all active physicians in the United States are Black, compared to 56% of white physicians. Shockingly, Black women make for less than 3% of physicians in the US.

This kind of severe underrepresentation plays into broader inequality for both health care professionals and patients, as the lack of Black doctors and medical staff who have the ability to recognize health concerns in Black patients may have life threatening consequences. 

By prioritizing accessibility and affordability in our medical research and development, Koning is committed to the elimination of health and healthcare inequities. Black History Month makes for a great incentive to support organizations who share these values, such as the Association of Black Women Physicians. ABWP is a nonprofit networked by Black women to support BIPOC women in healthcare. ABWP also funds projects committed to eradicating racial health disparities for BIPOC patients as well as improving the overall health concerns of minority patients.

“Since the nonprofit organization began in 1982, the Association of Black Women Physicians has awarded over $800,000 in scholarships to deserving Black medical students,” says Co-Chair, Advocacy Committee, and Past President of ABWP Dr. Valencia Walker. Furthermore, Dr. Walker describes ABWP’s work with organizations outside of the medical field to ensure people with power and influence across many industries understand the necessary fight for equality in healthcare. 

In honor of Black History Month 2023, support ABWP here.