Perceptions of Barriers and Facilitators to Becoming a Medical Professional Among Underrepresented Undergraduate and Postbaccalaureate Learners

Abstract

The study participants discussed negative and positive aspects of the health care environment, such as implicit and explicit biases and attributes that promote or sustain success. Participants expounded on financial, academic, social, and personal factors as barriers to success. In regard to resources that were believed to be helpful to mitigate barriers and promote success, participants commented on activities that simulate a professional medical environment, include networking with medical personnel, support well-being, and provide exposure to structured information on the process of obtaining professional medical training.