The role of black physicians in advocacy & leadership

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Submitted by Dr. Dapo Akinsipe, President of the Black Physicians’ Association of Alberta (BPAA)

As Black physicians in Alberta, we play a pivotal role in shaping a healthcare system that is equitable, inclusive and responsive to the diverse needs of our communities. The Black Physicians’ Association of Alberta (BPAA), founded in November 2020, is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to uniting, supporting, and empowering Black physicians, aspiring medical professionals and the Black community in Alberta.

At BPAA, our commitment extends to leadership, mentorship, advocacy, research and physician wellness—foundational pillars that drive meaningful and lasting change. This article highlights how Black physicians contribute to policy reform, medical leadership, and the development of future healthcare professionals, and how the BPAA actively supports these efforts.

Advocating for Policy Changes that Promote Health Equity

Black physicians witness firsthand the health disparities that disproportionately affect racialized communities. Systemic barriers, implicit bias and limited access to culturally competent care contribute to preventable gaps in health outcomes. Our advocacy efforts focus on:

• Culturally competent care: Promoting the integration of anti-racism and bias training into medical education and practice.
• Equitable access to healthcare: Addressing barriers that prevent marginalized communities from receiving timely and appropriate medical care.
• Data-driven policy change: Supporting the collection and use of race-based health data to inform policies and allocate healthcare resources more effectively.

Through strategic partnerships with policymakers, healthcare organizations and the College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta, we are working to drive systemic reforms that promote health equity for all Albertans.

Leadership in Medicine, Academia, and Public Health

Diverse leadership in healthcare leads to more inclusive policies and better patient outcomes. However, systemic barriers often limit leadership opportunities for Black physicians. The BPAA is committed to increasing Black representation in:

• Medical leadership: Encouraging and supporting Black physicians to serve on hospital boards, committees and policy-making bodies.
• Academic spaces: Expanding Black representation among medical educators and researchers, to shape curricula and improve mentorship.
• Public health initiatives: Leading community-based programs that address the social determinants of health affecting Black and underserved populations.

By fostering leadership opportunities, we help ensure that healthcare policies and practices reflect the needs and experiences of all communities.

Mentorship: Supporting the Next Generation of Black Physicians

Representation in medicine matters. Yet, Black medical students and aspiring healthcare professionals continue to face challenges such as limited mentorship opportunities and financial barriers. Our mentorship initiatives aim to:

• Establish strong mentorship networks: Connecting pre-med students, medical students and residents with experienced Black physicians.
• Provide career guidance: Offering workshops, application support and networking opportunities.
• Advocate for scholarships and funding: Collaborating with institutions to increase financial support for Black students pursuing careers in healthcare.

By investing in mentorship, we are shaping a more diverse and inclusive medical workforce, ensuring that future generations have the support they need to succeed.

Research: Addressing Racial Health Disparities

Research is a powerful tool for driving policy change and improving patient outcomes. The BPAA is committed to:

• Promoting research on Black health: Supporting studies that explore health disparities and culturally competent care.
• Encouraging Black-led research: Increasing opportunities for Black physicians and scholars to lead impactful research initiatives.
• Translating research into action: Using data to inform advocacy efforts and influence health policies that benefit marginalized communities.

By prioritizing research, we contribute to evidence-based solutions that promote better health outcomes for all.

Physician Wellness: Supporting Black Doctors in Alberta

Physician burnout and mental health challenges are significant concerns in healthcare, and Black physicians often face additional stressors such as racial bias, workplace discrimination and isolation. The BPAA is dedicated to:

• Creating safe spaces for Black physicians: Offering peer support networks and wellness programs.
• Advocating for institutional change: Addressing systemic factors that contribute to burnout among Black healthcare professionals.
• Promoting work-life balance: Supporting policies that enhance physician well-being and retention.

A healthy, well-supported physician workforce is crucial for delivering high-quality patient care and maintaining a sustainable healthcare system.

Conclusion

Black physicians in Alberta are more than just healthcare providers—they are leaders, advocates, and mentors dedicated to creating a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system. At the BPAA, we are proud to support initiatives that drive meaningful change and improve health outcomes for all communities. We warmly invite the College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta and other stakeholders to join us in this important work. By working together, we can build a healthcare system that truly reflects and serves the needs of all Albertans.

Dr. Dapo Akinsipe is a dual board-certified physician practising in both Canada and the United States, serving communities across Calgary and rural Alberta as a hospitalist with Alberta Health Services. In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Akinsipe holds a faculty appointment as clinical assistant professor at the University of Calgary’s Cumming School of Medicine. His commitment to medical leadership and diversity in health care is evident through his current role as President of the Black Physicians Association of Alberta and his position on the board of directors for the Black Physicians Association of Canada. Outside of his professional commitments, Dr. Akinsipe is married and a father of three children.