June 8, 2010
Letters to the Editor
The Washington Post
1150 15th St. NW
Washington, DC 20071
Dear Editor:
Offering all qualified candidates the opportunity to practice medicine (“Medical schools use outreach programs to make student bodies more diverse,” June 8) is an ongoing mission for the osteopathic medical profession. Last year, the American Osteopathic Association renewed policies calling for programs to encourage increased enrollment of qualified minorities in osteopathic medical schools, which train osteopathic physicians (DOs), and for the advancement and integration of minorities into the osteopathic medical profession.
In fact, minorities comprise 25% of enrollment at osteopathic medical schools. The Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine in Harlem is among the schools that recently opened its doors to train future physicians while providing access to care in a medically underserved community. The school’s enrollment is composed of 50% minorities, according to the school’s website, and graduates are expected to demonstrate an understanding of the distinct medical issues that challenge culturally diverse communities.
As health care reform provides all citizens with access to medical care, the osteopathic medical profession will continue its efforts to provide the best resources to train future DOs, including minorities, to become fully licensed physicians who can prescribe medication and practice in all medical specialties.
Sincerely,
Larry A. Wickless, DO
President
American Osteopathic Association