State-Funded Programs Have Expanded the Diversity of the Physician Workforce, Which is Key to Better Health Outcomes for New Yorkers

Investment Supports More Than 950 Students Served by Programs Managed by the Associated Medical Schools of New York 

Funding Supports Largest Cohort of Medical Students Receiving Scholarships

(New York, NY) – The Associated Medical Schools of New York, the consortium of the academic medical centers in New York, is calling on the State to continue its strong commitments to pathway programs and medical school scholarships that, over many decades, have resulted in a more diverse physician workforce. 

This past year, New York State allocated $3.644 million to the Diversity in Medicine Program, which is designed to close gaps in the medical profession by supporting more than 950 students in 19 programs across the state. These initiatives offer opportunities to students who are committed to becoming physicians and who have overcome adversity on the path to medical school. Many of the students who graduate from these programs will continue on to practice medicine in underserved communities and an even greater number will remain in New York practicing medicine for many years to come.

The Legislature’s $1 million investment in AMSNY’s Diversity in Medicine Scholarship program supports 33 students, covering the equivalent of SUNY medical school tuition and addressing the financial burdens that are often an impediment to enrollment. The scholarships are also supported through a generous grant from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation.

Research has clearly demonstrated that patients treated by doctors from shared backgrounds have better health outcomes, which makes diversifying the state’s physician workforce imperative to improving the overall health of New Yorkers and addressing health disparities. 

“Under Governor Hochul’s and the Legislature’s leadership, New York has significantly expanded opportunities for talented students who have shown resilience in overcoming barriers on their path to medical school. AMSNY is deeply grateful for the State’s commitment to addressing health disparities and inequities by investing in pathways to careers in medicine and a diverse physician workforce,” said Jonathan Teyan, AMSNY President and CEO.

Pathway programs supporting students from middle school through medical school are located across the state, including in Rochester, Buffalo, Syracuse, Albany, Westchester, New York City, and Long Island, providing broad access for a wide range of students. 

Associated Medical Schools of New York (AMSNY) launched its first diversity pipeline programs in 1985 and has continually provided opportunities for underrepresented students to prepare for and enter medical school. The New York State Department of Health has provided funding for these programs since 2002 in an effort to help broaden the demographics of people entering the medical profession in New York.