John L. Dalrymple, MD, Dean and CEO of Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine (KPSOM), and student Bianka Aguirre traveled to Washington, D.C. in September to join deans and learners from medical schools across the country in conversations with federal policymakers about the future of academic medicine.
Organized by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), the September 17 visit included a visit to Capitol Hill from medical schools in California, New York, and Puerto Rico to discuss federal policies that support a strong, well-trained physician and research workforce. Participants addressed priorities including development programs, residency training, access to medical education, and sustained investment in health and scientific research.
Dalrymple and Aguirre shared KPSOM perspectives on the importance of supporting physician workforce development, from medical school through residency training and practice. Aguirre also reflected on her experiences as a student and her commitment to serving communities through medicine.
“My longitudinal family medicine clerkship at Kaiser Permanente Cudahy Medical Center has been especially meaningful because I received pediatric care there as a South Gate resident,” Aguirre said. “Returning as a medical student, I became part of a culturally concordant care team and connected with patients through our shared community, language, faith, and environment.”
Aguirre said she hopes to give back as a physician through community-based care, health advocacy, community events, and mentorship of K-12 students.
“I was honored to join fellow medical school deans and learners on Capitol Hill to advocate for the future of academic medicine,” Dalrymple said. “Our conversations with policymakers focused on priorities that are essential to strengthening the physician and research workforce and preparing the next generation to meet the nation’s health needs.”
Later that evening, the group attended the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute’s (CHCI) 49th Annual Awards Gala. Together, the events provided opportunities to advocate for academic medicine priorities and elevate perspectives from institutions serving Latino students, patients, and communities.
“It was especially meaningful to take part in these discussions alongside CHCI events celebrating the contributions of the Latino community,” Dalrymple said.
The visit gave KPSOM an opportunity to contribute to national conversations about medical education, workforce development, and research, and to share how the school is preparing future physicians to care for patients and communities.
To learn more about the experience, read the AAMC story here .
