Dr. Chantal Reyna Speaks to American College of Surgeons on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Surgery
Chantal Reyna, M.D., FACS, Medical Director for the Breast Program and Chief of Breast Surgery for Crozer Health, was recently interviewed by the American College of Surgeons (ACS) on racial and gender intersectionality in medicine and the importance of mentorship in achieving diversity, equity, and inclusion. The interview was part of the ACS Bulletin Brief online series.
An active member of the Association of Women’s Surgeons and the Latino Surgical Society, Dr. Reyna plays a large role in advocacy work. She explained the current focus on including underrepresentation in medicine.
Dr. Reyna explained the importance of recruiting medical students from different backgrounds and experiences, and how mentorship can help in this effort. She noted her own experience being of Hispanic descent and dreaming of becoming a doctor.
“I didn’t have the benefit of mentorship – I struggled to figure it out by myself,” she explained regarding her pre- and undergraduate years. “But it gave me life experiences on how to interact with people of different backgrounds. I want to be that example for students in high school or undergrad. You may not know the path or have someone there to help, but it can be done.”
The best way for physicians to engage people and help them achieve their aspirations, she said, is by being accessible and listening – talking to them about what they want and need and sharing how you can help. She encouraged those interested in being mentored to reach out to colleagues, professional organizations – such as the Association of Women Surgeons or Latino Surgical Society – or their family and friends.