The American Society of Hand Therapists’ Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee is pleased to announce the next selection for the ASHT DEI Book Club. After careful consideration and thoughtful suggestions, the committee has selected a compelling and thought-provoking read that we believe will foster rich discussions within our community.
¡Un Doctor, Por Favor!: Why We Need More Hispanic Doctors in the U.S.
by Paola Mina-Osorio, MD, PhD
November 4, 2026
8 p.m. ET
The author will join the discussion to answer questions from both moderators and participants!
CE Credit: 1.0 continuing education hour, or 0.10 CEUs
Pricing: This event is FREE to members and nonmembers. Registration is required.
Description
In ¡Un Doctor, Por Favor!, Paola Mina-Osorio examines the challenges faced by young Hispanics who aspire to enter the medical field. The book was inspired by a Hispanic student whose school counselor told her she was “not college material,” a moment that reflects the broader systemic barriers many students encounter. Dr. Mina-Osorio presents an overview of the complex health and educational disparities affecting Hispanics in the U.S., combining clear, accessible data with personal stories.
The book also highlights the activism of patients, health care workers, and community organizations who have challenged these restrictions and fought to expand access. Through this lens, Dr. Mina-Osorio reveals how debates over immigration and health care are deeply intertwined with broader struggles over rights and social justice in America.
About the Author
Paola Mina-Osorio is a Hispanic physician scientist specializing in immunology research and the development of new treatments for autoimmune diseases. She earned her M.D. and Ph.D. from the Central University of Ecuador School of Medicine and the National Autonomous University of Mexico and completed postdoctoral training at the University of Connecticut Health Center and the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research.
Embracing her identity as an immigrant physician-scientist and driven by her own journey in medicine and science in the U.S., Dr. Mina-Osorio mentors Hispanic and Latino students who want to become doctors and scientists. She knows the struggles they face, like imposter syndrome, a lack of role models, family support, and language barriers, but she believes these challenges can lead to growth and success.
Through her writing, Dr. Mina-Osorio shares inspiring stories that highlight why representation in medicine and science matters and how increasing diversity strengthens the future of healthcare.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this activity, participants will:
- Describe the complex perspectives relating to race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, ability, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion and life experiences which shape the clinical learning environment, influence clinical decision-making and ultimately impact the delivery of patient care.
- Examine the role of discrimination, bias, microaggressions and racism in the ability to deliver equitable care and use increased competency in anti-racism, cultural humility, social justice, racial equity, allyship, disabusing disability, gender/sexuality issues and LGBTQ+ promotion and acceptance to eliminate health disparities and improve health equity.
- Examine organizational climates and attitudes which impose barriers to creating diverse, equitable and inclusive environments.
- Discuss scholarly work with organizational audiences which improves patient education, expands the framework of clinical decision-making and contributes to the body of work in diversity, equity and inclusion.
Suggested resources to acquire the book: