Los Angeles-based City of Hope is partnering with Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, the only historically Black medical school west of the Mississippi River, to educate a more diverse workforce.
The partnership will provide a pathway for medical students to pursue careers in specialized medical practices and research in areas such as oncology and diabetes, while also closing the gap in staff diversity, according to a June 12 system news release shared with Becker's. The partnership will provide students with clinical and research summer internships, curriculum in health equity, diversity and inclusion, mentorship and coaching opportunities with City of Hope faculty, a four-week class on hematology and oncology as part of the university's MD program, and more.
"We know that more diverse representation is needed in cancer care and research," John Carpten, PhD, chief scientific officer and the Irell & Manella Cancer Center Director's Distinguished Chair and Morgan & Helen Chu Director's Chair of the Beckman Research Institute at City of Hope, said in the news release. "We also know that there is important work to be done to close health equity gaps for people of color in the areas of early detection, clinical trials enrollment, treatment outcomes and more. That's why we are honored to join together with Charles R. Drew University."
Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science is one of four historically black medical schools in the nation.