Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Rutgers NJMS Internal Medicine Residency Program

Introduction

The Internal Medicine Residency program at Rutgers NJMS is proud to be an advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our program is deeply rooted in the diverse communities it serves, spanning three distinct hospitals: Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, East Orange Veterans Affairs Hospital, and University Hospital in Newark. Every resident will have the opportunity to care for the most underserved and often forgotten patients.

Our Commitment

Fostering Trust:

• Recognizing the history of medical practices that have broken the trust of vulnerable populations, Rutgers NJMS works tirelessly to rebuild that trust. We are committed to creating an environment that fosters trust in the medical community.

Urban Health Track:

• We offer an Urban Health Track designed for residents who want to tackle health disparities head-on. This track provides specific training and experiences tailored to addressing the unique challenges of urban healthcare.

Outreach and Inclusivity:

• We actively engage in outreach efforts, such as participation in the Howard University Residency Fair and collaboration with the Student National Medical Association (SNMA) at our home medical school. These initiatives enable us to reach a broader pool of applicants.

Support and Resources

Tailored Support:

• We provide individualized support for residents from underserved backgrounds. Each resident’s experience is tailored to ensure they feel supported and empowered.

Mentorship Programs:

• Our program offers mentorship in the form of research mentors and also maintain an open-door policy, allowing residents to reach out to program leadership with any questions or concerns.

Inclusivity and Zero Tolerance

Zero Tolerance Policy:

• Rutgers NJMS Internal Medicine Residency Program maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy against any form of discrimination and harassment pertaining to age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, sexual identity, education, national origin, or any other distinguishing characteristic or trait. We are committed to maintaining an environment where everyone feels safe and respected. This policy also extends to our patients, who often are victims of societal bias and systemic oppression. 

Community Collaboration

Local Partnerships:

• We collaborate with a variety of local organizations, including detention centers, homeless shelters, LGBTQIA+ wellness centers, HIV clinics, and gender-affirming care centers. These partnerships allow us to actively contribute to the well-being of our community.

At Rutgers NJMS Internal Medicine Residency Program, we embrace diversity, foster equity, and prioritize inclusion. Our commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive community is at the core of our mission, ensuring that every resident feels valued, heard, and empowered to make a positive impact on healthcare.