Students at the UW School of Medicine, with guidance from Edwin Lindo, JD, associate dean for Social and Health Justice in the Office of Healthcare Equity, raised concerns about the use of race in medical case studies, sparking a multi-year reflection within the Department of Ophthalmology. Questioning race as a diagnostic criterion, these students initiated a shift in how it is addressed in medical education. The department engaged in deep discussions, training, and research. As a result, they removed race from case studies. This effort highlights the ongoing journey to challenge outdated medical assumptions and promote more equitable healthcare.
