The Minority Ophthalmology Mentoring Program: A Model for Increasing Diversity in Surgical Specialties

PROBLEM: Ethnic and racial diversity is increasing among medical students, with groups that were historically underrepresented in medicine (URiM) now estimated to constitute 21.5% of medical students. However, there is a drop-off in the percentage of URiM students pursuing residencies in surgical specialties. In 2019, only 5.8% of ophthalmology residents surveyed identified themselves as URiM. This has public health implications in that visual impairment and blindness disproportionately affect racial and ethnic minoritized populations in the United States, and URiM physicians practicing in these communities enhance patients' trust in their care, resulting in better utilization of health services, medical adherence, and health outcomes. APPROACH: The Minority Ophthalmology Mentoring Program was created in 2018 by the American Academy of Ophthalmology and Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology to help overcome barriers to ophthalmology careers among URiM students and to strengthen their competitiveness for acceptance into residency positions. Key components include individualized mentorship by practicing ophthalmologists, dedicated educational materials for test preparation, a "match prep boot camp," networking opportunities, and support for research projects and away rotations. OUTCOMES: As of February 2025, 97 participants have matched into 54 ophthalmology residency programs. In 2022 and 2023, match rates for the program participants exceeded the SF Match national average for U.S. students. Participant surveys revealed a high degree of satisfaction with program activities and materials. NEXT STEPS: The program continues to evolve based on ongoing feedback from mentors and mentees and match outcomes data. It was renamed the VISION Mentoring Program 2025 reflecting an expanded reach and commitment to all medical students dedicated to advancing equity and improving access to high-quality eye care in underserved communities. Plans are underway to deepen collaboration with academic and community-based partners and for tracking long-term outcomes beyond residency.