Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Orthopedic Surgery with Dr. Alexis Gaskin

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Orthopedic Surgery with Dr. Alexis Gaskin In this episode, Dr. Alexis Gaskin, an orthopedic surgeon, delves into her journey into medicine and orthopedic surgery, highlighting the pivotal role of mentorship in her decision-making process. Despite encountering obstacles during the medical school application phase, Dr. Gaskin found guidance and encouragement from mentors who aided her in navigating the complexities of the process. Her passion for orthopedic surgery stems from its procedural nature and the immediate impact it has on patients, underscoring the significance of mentorship and finding mentors who appreciate individual uniqueness. Additionally, Dr. Gaskin reflects on her collegiate basketball career, sharing insights into the challenges she faced and the lessons learned. She also addresses the representation of women in orthopedic surgery, shedding light on the hurdles she's confronted as a black woman in the field, while offering valuable advice for aspiring orthopedic surgeons, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and networking. Key takeaways from this episode include the critical role of mentorship in guiding aspiring physicians, the potential to overcome challenges in the medical school application process with mentor support and a clear understanding of requirements, and the importance of selecting a specialty aligned with personal interests and strengths. Dr. Gaskin's journey exemplifies the transformative power of mentorship, illustrating how experiences, such as college basketball, can contribute to professional development. While progress is evident in improving gender diversity in orthopedic surgery, Dr. Gaskin acknowledges the ongoing work required. She navigates challenges with professionalism and grace, highlighting the essential role of mentorship and networking programs available to support and empower future orthopedic surgeons. Follow Dr. Gaskin on Twitter or Instagram If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend and leave a comment and rating on iTunes. TBDP is a volunteer passion project with the goal of inspiring all who listen. In-house music and audio production, so any ideas for improvements or suggestions for future guests are welcome. Visit www.StevenBradleyMD.com to learn more about our host. He is available for consultations or speaking engagements regarding health equity and medical ethics.