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Breaking Silence: Confronting Diversity and Access Issues in Speech Pathology Pt 2
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The countdown to healthcare's "Silver Tsunami" has begun. By 2030, every American baby boomer will be over 65, creating an unprecedented 70-80 million retiree population that will transform our healthcare system. What happens when this massive demographic meets a healthcare workforce that doesn't reflect the diversity of those it serves?
Dr. Uchi, one of the less than 1% of occupational therapists who are Black men, takes us deep into this looming crisis. Occupational therapy—that crucial but often misunderstood profession helping people regain independence after illness or injury—stands at a crossroads. Will it rise to meet historically high demand, or shrink from the challenge?
The conversation reveals how shockingly little has changed in healthcare diversity. Despite occupational therapy's founding in 1917, the first Black OT wasn't admitted to school until the 1970s. Today, only 5% of OTs are Black—the same percentage as in 2010. This representation gap isn't just a staffing issue; it directly impacts patient outcomes when people can't see themselves reflected in their care providers.
Through personal stories, we explore how cultural connections between patients and providers break down barriers to rehabilitation. One speech therapist shares a powerful moment helping an aphasic stroke patient communicate through gospel songs—demonstrating how understanding cultural context transforms care.
Dr. Uchi explains how he's using social media to make OT more accessible and appealing to younger generations and communities of color. By meeting people "in their arena" and expanding OT beyond traditional applications into areas like masculinity and mental health, he's reimagining what the profession can be.
Whether you're considering a healthcare career, concerned about the future of eldercare, or interested in healthcare equity, this conversation offers crucial insights into challenges and opportunities that will shape healthcare for decades to come. Subscribe to hear more conversations at the intersection of healthcare, diversity, and the future of patient care.
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Chapters
1. Breaking Silence: Confronting Diversity and Access Issues in Speech Pathology Pt 2 (00:00:00)
2. Introduction to Dr. Uchi (00:00:01)
3. Life as an Occupational Therapist (00:02:43)
4. The Coming Silver Tsunami (00:06:37)
5. The Future of OT and Healthcare (00:09:10)
6. Diversity Crisis in Occupational Therapy (00:13:38)
7. The Importance of Representation (00:20:42)
8. Improving PR and Diversity in Allied Health (00:25:01)
9. Making OT Appealing and Accessible (00:26:42)
12 episodes
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