July 26, 2023
The Association of Pediatric Program Directors (APPD) stands in solidarity with graduate medical education (GME) leaders challenged politically and socially to deliver evidence-based medical training for learners and faculty within their institutions. The APPD is committed to supporting all program leaders in their provision of the most inclusive and comprehensive educational environment for learners and faculty, regardless of geographical location in the country. We are grateful for their dedication to medical education and to patient care.
The APPD strives to be at the forefront of promoting equitable and just health care for all. We offer support to GME leaders through the following initiatives that aim to protect Diversity, Equity, Inclusion (DEI), Sexual Reproductive Health, and Gender Affirming care:
- Diversity, Equity, Inclusion:
- Through APPD’s Confronting Racism Action team, we have developed educational materials, mentoring initiatives, and collaboration with other organizations to confront racism that improve children’s health, community health, and social justice.
- Through APPD Virtual Cafés and APPD Connect, we will continue to provide best practices for holistic review and the recruitment and retention of a diverse pediatric workforce. We stand by ACGME’s Letter to the Community Regarding the Supreme Court Affirmative Action Decision. Please also see the ACGME Equity MattersTM Equity Practice Toolkit.
- Sexual and Reproductive Health in the Post-Dobbs Era of Training:
- Through APPD’s Community Health and Advocacy Learning Community, advocacy and educational resources have been developed and posted for programs to use.
- Gender Affirming Care:
- Through APPD Longitudinal Educational Software Solutions and Outcomes Network (LESSON), we are developing curriculum on the topics of “Culturally Competent, Inclusive, and Affirming Care for LGBTQ+ Youth”. Expected launch date for the curriculum is late Summer 2023.
Speaking out against injustice in all forms is our duty as leaders who support pediatric education. As an organization, APPD will continue to work with our members to determine how best to advocate, teach, listen and learn. Please contact the APPD at info@appd.org if you have resources that can contribute to our efforts.
Respectfully,
APPD Board
