Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
At Inova Pediatric Residency, we deeply value and embrace individuals of all races, ethnicities, ages, gender identities, sexual orientations, and religious backgrounds, including those who are underrepresented in medicine. We are dedicated to fostering unity through diversity and inclusion, and we aim to recruit, retain, and develop individuals who embody this culture of acceptance.
Diversity and Inclusion Committee:
The Diversity and Inclusion Committee, comprising both residents and faculty members, is dedicated to advancing diversity and inclusion within our program. The committee meets regularly to develop initiatives that enhance diversity and support trainees.
Committee Chairs:
- Kamilah Halmon, MD
- Natalie McKnight, MD
Diverse Patient Population
Residents provide care to a diverse patient population across a broad geographic area. All residents, regardless of their continuity clinic location, spend one month annually at the Inova Cares Clinic for Children (ICCC), a National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA)-recognized Patient-Centered Medical Home for children up to 21 years of age. The clinic predominantly serves uninsured or Medicaid patients, with approximately 80 percent identifying as Hispanic/Latino and over 20 languages spoken by patients.
In their second year, residents participate in a month-long Community Pediatrics rotation. This experience includes performing and reflecting on a home visit, volunteering in the community, and engaging in a longitudinal partnership with Bryant High School. Residents also participate in a scavenger hunt to explore community resources and understand the challenges faced by low-income families.
Volunteer Opportunities for Individuals Underrepresented in Medicine
- Participate in the Realizing Inclusion and Systemic Equity in Medicine (RISE) curriculum
- Engage in the recruitment fair at Howard University
- Encouraged attendance to the annual Student National Medical Association (SNMA) Conference
Fourth-Year Elective
We offer an elective for fourth-year medical students underrepresented in medicine (URM). This elective allows URM students to serve as Acting Interns on a general pediatric ward for a four-week rotation. A stipend of up to $2,500 is available to cover application fees, travel, housing, and meals.
Eligibility and Application Requirements:
- Applicants must be currently enrolled at an LCME-accredited medical school and from backgrounds underrepresented in medicine.
- Applications will be reviewed based on merit, availability of stipend funds, and open elective spaces.
- Visiting students must adhere to the UVA School of Medicine Inova Campus academic calendar.
Required Documents:
- Completed VSLO application
- Official medical school transcript
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Completed supplemental application form
- Brief statement discussing interest in this elective and the importance of diversity in medicine