Urologic oncology workforce diversity: A first step in reducing cancer disparities

Urologic cancer disparities based on race/ethnicity and gender are well-documented across the cancer continuum. Patients cared for by physicians of similar race/ethnicity and gender report better communication, patient satisfaction, and care adherence which has the potential to translate into better health outcomes. We believe that ensuring a diverse Urologic Oncology workforce is an important first step toward eliminating cancer disparities due to the downstream effects of improved communication between concordant patient-physician dyads. In this essay, we review the demographics of the Urologic cancer patient population and Urologic Oncology workforce; describe current evidence supporting healthcare workforce diversity, especially related to race and gender-based concordant patient-physician relationships; and make recommendations for individual and institutional strategies to develop and support a diverse workforce in Urologic Oncology.