US Graduates of Cuba's Latin American Medical School (ELAM): A Unique Pipeline for a Diverse Health Workforce in the United States

In 2010, African-American and Latinos comprised 25% of the US population but less than 10% of the health care workforce. While US medical schools continue efforts to raise minority recruitment, another innovative approach comes from unexpected quarters. In 2001, the first class of US students joined the ranks of 28 other countries at Cuba's Latin America Medical School (ELAM) on full scholarship from the Cuban government. Since 2001, approximately 177 US students have matriculated at ELAM, (110 studying presently, and 67 graduates). Most of those who have begun their residencies have chosen primary care specialties. These US students and graduates represent the ethnic and socio-economic diversity in proportions not currently found in US medical schools. Approximately 50% are African-American, 35% Latino or Caribbean, and 15% Asian, Pacific Islander and Caucasian, with the vast majority from working-class families. They graduate bilingual with minimal debt and a moral commitment to underserved communities. MEDICC's MD Pipeline program supports ELAM students and graduates with the following: •Fellowships to defray the cost of the US board exams •Mentors to guide students into residency •Coordination of summer clinical placements in the US •Outreach to residency programs and medical conferences A result of the MD Pipeline, US ELAM students' board scores are improving; students are gaining confidence in US hospital and clinic procedures, systems and practices, and they are acquiring the network necessary in applying for residencies. Assuring their success as socially committed physicians can have a major effect on furthering health equity in the US.