Recognizing National Latino Physician Day

A Special Message from Dr. José Arévalo, LPOC Board Chairman

Greetings,

National Latino Physicians Day (Sunday, October 1) is a grass-roots movement created by the Latino Community to be celebrated on October 1st of each year to recognize the contributions of Latino physicians to the medical field and to raise awareness of the importance of diversity in healthcare.

Latinos make up about 19% of the US population, but only about 6% of physicians. This underrepresentation is a problem because it means that Latinos patients are less likely to have access to healthcare providers who fully understand their cultural and linguistic needs.

Latino physicians play a vital role in bridging the gap between the ever-growing Latino community and the healthcare system. They are more likely to speak Spanish and to understand the cultural factors that can affect health outcomes. Latino physicians are also more likely to practice in underserved communities, where they provide essential care to patients who might otherwise not have access to it.

National Latino Physicians Day is an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of Latino physicians to the medical field and to raise awareness of the importance of diversity in healthcare. It is also a day to encourage more Latinos to pursue careers in medicine.

National Latino Physicians Day is a reminder that we must continue to work to create a more diverse and inclusive healthcare system.

Sincerely,

José A. Arévalo, M.D.

Chair, Latinx Physicians of California