The Business of Eye Innovation - Episode 9
Diversity & Inclusion in Ophthalmology from a US & EU Perspective
On this episode of the BOEI Podcast, Founder and President of Medevise Consulting, Kristine Morrill, sits down with Professor Eve J. Higginbotham, the Vice Dean for Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity, Senior Fellow, LDI of Health Economics, and glaucoma specialist and Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Pennsylvania, and Dr. Mor M. Dickman, a cornea specialist with Maastricht University Medical Center - Netherlands, discuss the current state of affairs in diversity & inclusion in ophthalmology as well as how aspiring ophthalmologists can make use of the networking resources available today to build the career they want.
Key takeaways:
In the Netherlands, medical students are between 60 and 70% women, and in the US, near 35%, but when you go up the academic and leadership ladders, you see fewer and fewer women, which raises an issue for all minorities. To improve this, we need to address the leaky pipeline. We must identify what is lacking in their ability to be supported throughout this pipeline to be successful.
Addressing the diversity and inclusion challenge through appreciative inquiry – focusing on the positives and outlining the value proposition for inclusive leadership and excellence. We must help people understand the business case and the lost opportunity for not considering all perspectives.
The critical role of mentorship, particularly for minorities, in having someone to help you build networks, open doors, and break through the glass ceiling.
Why activism and advocacy are critically important, particularly in times of crisis and why we cannot sit back and say “well, we’ve reached something, and we’re doing good.” There is still so far to go and new threats to minorities every day.
Find out more about our guests Professor Eve J. Higginbotham and Dr. Mor M. Dickman.
Connect with Medevise on LinkedIn.