Academic Essay Excerpt

Access to healthcare is the most important issue confronting disadvantaged communities. As an emergency department scribe in a complex metropolitan city, I see first-hand the disparities in patient outcomes for those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Many of these patients have significant chronic health issues and are not properly followed by a primary medical provider. I realized that people from disadvantaged backgrounds struggle to manage their chronic diseases, and this was the staple of the emergency department.

Most of the people I met struggled with access to care, whether it be for financial reasons or because it may be difficult to schedule an ideal time with a physician. One of my goals in medical school is to learn how I can help those with financial barriers so that I can think of innovative ways to help. Although I am not sure I can positively impact cost issues, I know that as a physician I will do everything I can to meet patients where they live.