Skin of Color Savvy: Diversity in Dermatology Within the Modern Landscape, with Crystal Aguh, MD, and John Harris, MD, PhD

Welcome to Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color!

In this episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, Crystal Aguh, MD, associate professor of dermatology and director of the Ethnic Skin Program at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, and John Harris, MD, the founding Director of the Vitiligo Clinic and Research Center, founding director of the Autoimmune Therapeutics Institute and professor and chair of the Department of Dermatology at UMass Chan Medical School in Worcester, together explored the importance of mentorship, visibility, and leadership among dermatologists and dermatology trainees of different backgrounds.

Hosted by Skin of Color Society (SOCS) leaders, this podcast episode continues to delve into the latest research, clinical insights, and culturally intelligent and responsive care practices in the field of dermatology. Together, Aguh and Harris spoke on a variety of subjects in this area.

Aguh and Harris discussed the importance of diversity in clinical trials and research, emphasizing the need for diverse principal investigators and teams. Harris highlighted his experiences moderating a panel on incorporating diversity into clinical research, noting the challenges and benefits. They discussed the impact of federal regulations on National Institutes of Health (NIH) grants and the necessity of addressing questions about the importance of diversity.

Harris pointed out the challenges of addressing conversations regarding diversity among clinicians and in clinical research within the present political climate, highlighting that some have questioned whether to bring up the conversation at all. Both expressed optimism about the growth and impact of SOCS in advancing research and treatment for patients of color.

As the episode closed, the conversation reinforced the power of mentorship, the importance of role models, and the responsibility of current leaders to cultivate a more equitable future in dermatology. For both those in medical school and those who are current health care providers, the episode offers a compelling look at how connection, advocacy, and shared purpose can drive lasting change within the specialty.

To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

Editor's note: This interview was summarized with the aid of artificial intelligence.