Equity and Inclusion in Medical Science: Insights from STAT’s 2024 List of Leaders in the Life Sciences

Wednesday night in downtown Boston, physicians, researchers, CEOs, reporters, and more gathered to celebrate STAT’s 2024 STATUS List. This year’s list features 50 leaders in the life sciences who are driving innovation and improving healthcare in the US and worldwide.

During the event, members of the list shared their insights on the key issues that need to be prioritized to improve healthcare. One of the main themes discussed was equity and inclusion in medical science. Jonathan Jackson, an honoree from 2023 and the executive director of the Community Access, Recruitment, and Engagement Research Center at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School emphasized the importance of moving research away from elite institutions to achieve true equity. He highlighted how marginalized populations are often overlooked in research and advocacy efforts.

Stuart Orkin, a professor at Harvard Medical School also spoke about equity in research and healthcare. He pointed out how powerful institutions like the National Institutes of Health and the pharmaceutical industry have underinvested in sickle cell research for many years. His own research laid the foundation for Vertex’s groundbreaking gene therapy for sickle cell disease which predominantly affects Black individuals. Orkin has become an advocate for equity in research and healthcare, highlighting the importance of addressing disparities in health outcomes among different populations.

The evening showcased not only this year’s honorees but also a few past ones who shared their insights on key issues affecting their fields. The celebration was a testament to these leaders’ dedication to improving healthcare outcomes for all people around the world through innovation and collaboration.

In conclusion, it is evident that equity and inclusion are major issues that need to be addressed in medical science. Leaders like Jonathan Jackson and Stuart Orkin have been advocating for change by emphasizing the importance of prioritizing marginalized populations in research as well as addressing disparities in health outcomes among different populations. As we move forward towards a better future for healthcare, it is crucial that we continue to support these leaders who are driving innovation through collaboration with powerful institutions like NIH and pharmaceutical companies alike.