Applying the community health worker model in dermatology: a curriculum for skin cancer prevention education training

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Perceptions of Skin Cancer Clinical Trials in the Hispanic Population

OBJECTIVE

To determine the factors that might limit Hispanic patients from participating in dermatological clinical trials.

METHODS

From January 2022 to July 2022, we administered a 31-item, in-person questionnaire to patients recruited in the waiting area of the Caridad Center, one of the largest free clinics in the United States with a predominately Hispanic population, and a nearby private primary care clinic.

RESULTS

Overall, Hispanic patients agreed significantly more with statements in the domain of attitude and behavioral beliefs compared to non-Hispanic survey respondents. The Hispanic ethnicity was associated with increased odds of agreeing with the following statements: "My community would really benefit from skin cancer clinical trials" (OR=0.52; 95% CI 0.30, 0.92), "My participation in a skin cancer study would be very good" (OR=0.59; 95% CI 0.35, 0.99), and "I like to do good for others" (OR=0.41; 95% CI 0.22, 0.77).

CONCLUSION

While the United States population is composed of 18.5% Hispanics, they only account for 1% of patients enrolled in clinical trials. This study helps identify potential motivational factors for Hispanic patients to participate in skin cancer clinical trials.

Ending the pandemic of inaccessibility in dermatology

Dermatology in the United States is among the global leaders in advancing scientific discovery and practicing evidence-based medicine; however, many patients face limited access to dermatologic care due to a national shortage of dermatologists, provider clustering, and the interplay of sociodemographic and socioeconomic factors. These intertwined barriers have created a landscape where race, ethnicity, insurance subtype, education, and socioeconomic status negatively impact access to dermatologic services. Leveraging the utilization of technology and community engagement provides inroads to improve access to care. We outline how teleconsultations, telementoring, specialty care extension for community health outcomes (Project ECHO), community health centers, donated specialty care models, and community health workers can be bolstered to create more equitable access to care.

Racial/ethnic health disparities in dermatology in the United States, part 1: Overview of contributing factors and management strategies

Racial or ethnic disparities are prevalent in the field of dermatology. Part 1 of this continuing medical education series aims to elucidate contributors to racial and ethnic disparities within dermatology and highlight potential actionable steps to combat these disparities. We review access to care, workforce diversity, cultural competency, implicit bias, dermatologic education material, patient education, and clinical research. Part 2 of the continuing medical education series will address disease-specific inequities that influence the clinical practice of dermatology.