Posted Oct. 3, 2024

 

On October 1, during National Hispanic Heritage Month, Congresswoman Yadira Caraveo M.D. (CO-08) re-introduced her congressional resolution to honor Latino physicians alongside Congressman Raul Ruiz, M.D., (CA-25) and Congresswoman Maria Elvira Salazar (FL-27).

 

The resolution would establish October 1 as National Latino Physician Day. The resolution recognizes the valuable contributions Latino and Latina physicians make to their communities and spurs action toward increasing diversity in the medical field.

 

“Today I am announcing this bipartisan resolution as the first Latina Doctor in the history of Congress, knowing I will not be the last. I commend all of the Latinos and Latinas who have paved the way so far for future generations of Latino and Latina physicians that will provide culturally competent medical care to our parents, siblings, grandparents and other loved ones. I will continue working hard in Congress for them —opening doors, building bridges and breaking the barriers that have stood between them and their dreams for far too long,” said Congresswoman Yadira Caraveo, M.D.

 

“There is a significant shortage of Latino physicians in our health care workforce. While Latinos make up 19% of the U.S. population, they account for less than 7% of physicians,” said Dr. Raul Ruiz. “As an emergency medicine physician, I have seen how access to quality, culturally sensitive health care providers improves patient outcomes. That’s why I joined Dr. Caraveo in introducing this resolution to support Latino and Latina physicians. By increasing the number of Latino and Latina physicians, we improve health care for everyone.”

 

“Whether providing quality healthcare or helping patients navigate a complex healthcare system, Latino physicians serve an essential role in Miami,” said Rep. Salazar. “I am proud to introduce this bipartisan resolution with Rep. Caraveo (D-CO). We should recognize and support Latino physicians for their nonstop commitment to those they serve, and their contribution to the healthcare workforce, which is facing a nationwide shortage.”

 

“The National Hispanic Medical Association (NHMA) is proud to support the National Latino Physician Day (NLPD) Resolution, championed by Representatives Caraveo (D-CO), Ruiz (D-CA), and Salazar (R-FL). It’s crucial to acknowledge that while Latinos represent nearly 20% of the total U.S. population, only 6% of U.S. physicians are Latino. As advocates for Latino physicians, NHMA believes that designating October 1st as NLPD is a significant and meaningful first step in recognizing the vital contributions of Latino physicians,” said NHMA Interim President and Chair of Board, Dr. Gilbert Burgos.

 

Watch Congresswoman Caraveo’s video remarks on the resolution here.

View the full National Latino Physician Day resolution text here.