About Us
Cultural diversity in healthcare is crucial if our nation’s health care system is to ensure patient-centered, culturally competent, quality health care outcomes. Research has shown that if these diverse patients see themselves within the healthcare workforce, they are more likely to trust their healthcare provider. They are also better able to communicate their condition, more likely to understand and follow their prescribed treatment, and more satisfied with their healthcare, leading to more positive health outcomes.
Despite major advances and technological improvements in public health and medicine, health disparities persist by race and ethnicity, income, and educational attainment, and in some cases are increasing(1). A new study from the George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health has found a severe lack of diversity in the health care workforce, a problem that, according to researchers, could worsen health disparities for minorities. BESt is preparing a pool of providers that are equipped to serve diverse populations to combat this problem.
Educational pipeline programs play a vital role in increasing the diversity of health professions, addressing educational opportunity gaps, and reducing health disparities. By building a more diverse health workforce, the United States would improve access and outcomes in underserved communities and for high-need populations. The goal of the BESt Healthcare Institute is to play a critical and meaningful role in this process.
Why students want to participate in the program:
- Spend four weeks experiencing life on a premier college campus
Expand your social network by connecting with like-minded peers through collaborative team projects, team building, and case competitions - Explore healthcare through customized hands-on learning with leading health care providers, in the disciplines of medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and public health
- Experience personal growth through a focus on professional development and college readiness
- Connect with employers across diverse healthcare settings
- Earn a stipend upon successful program completion
New Location for BESt!
