National Medical Fellowships, Inc.

Breastfeeding disparities uniquely impact diverse populations. Black, Indigenous, Hispanic, and low-income mothers face barriers like cultural misunderstandings, limited health care access, and socioeconomic challenges. Addressing these issues with culturally competent support can foster a healthier future for all. This is an urgent and preventable public health crisis. For instance, 73.7% of Black infants are breastfed compared to 86.7% of White infants. At six months, Black infants are 21% less likely to be breastfed (CDC, 2017). Socioeconomic barriers, health care access, and cultural dynamics contribute to this disparity. Targeted support and equitable #HealthCare practices are essential to bridge this gap. Breast milk provides essential nutrients and antibodies, protecting infants from infections and chronic diseases. Continuing breastfeeding beyond six months supports brain development and teething. Studies, including those from Brown University, show enhanced brain development in infants breastfed exclusively for at least three months. Breastfeeding also benefits mothers, reducing the risk of breast and ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure (CDC). The American Academy of Pediatrics and WHO recommend exclusive breastfeeding for about six months, with continued breastfeeding along with complementary foods for up to two years or longer. However, some mothers are unable to breastfeed due to physical or mental challenges, low milk production, or the demands of frequent pumping, which is economically unfeasible for many working mothers. The high cost of quality formula and limited insurance coverage for prescribed formula add further burdens. #Breastfeeding parents should have the choice for their bodies and babies. Advocate for better breastfeeding outcomes for all. #BreastfeedingAwarenessMonth

National Medical Fellowships (NMF) is proud to back House Resolution 1180, led by Rep. Joyce Beatty and Rep. Kathy Castor. This important resolution highlights the need for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in medical education. NMF has a long history of championing a diverse #HealthCare workforce, from the era of Jim Crow to today's challenges against equity efforts. Supporting this bill aligns with NMF's mission to drive meaningful change in the health care system. Rep. Beatty has emphasized the crucial role of doctors of color in advancing medical science and improving global health. Yet, systemic obstacles still limit their representation in the medical field. #DEI initiatives are vital for boosting the presence of diverse doctors within the health care system. House Resolution 1180 seeks to ensure our health care workforce reflects our diverse population, promoting health equity across the nation while upholding DEI efforts and academic freedom in medical education. NMF joins forces with organizations like the American Association of Medical Colleges, National Medical Association, National Hispanic Medical Association, and the American Federation of Teachers to support this resolution. Together, we’re committed to fostering health care professionals dedicated to reducing health disparities and providing equitable care for all. Interested in learning more about #HouseResolution1180 and how you can get involved? Visit nmfonline.org or reach out to your local representatives to make a difference in health care!

🌟 BREAKING NEWS: A Historic Milestone for Black Medical Education! 🌟 Bloomberg Philanthropies has donated a historic $600 million to four historically Black medical schools! This transformative gift to Charles R. Drew University, Howard University College of Medicine, Meharry Medical College, and Morehouse School of Medicine, plus the upcoming Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine, marks a major leap towards health equity. Join us as Michael R. Bloomberg shares this fantastic news at our 122nd Annual Convention and Scientific Assembly today at 11:00 am! “I’m excited for what this history-making gift will mean for Black physicians, Black medical school students and faculty and communities across the United States,” said Dr. Yolanda Lawson, the 124th President of the National Medical Association. “This investment will directly improve the pipeline for Black physicians and help to close the health care disparity gap.” Let's celebrate this milestone in advancing medical education and health equality! READ MORE HERE: https://bityl.co/RQqD #NMA2024 #HealthEquity #HBCU #MedicalEducation #NMANYC24

Unlock your potential with the NMF Diversity in Clinical Trials Research (Dctr) program! This unique training initiative aims to diversify the clinical research field by equipping Emerging Investigators from underrepresented backgrounds with the skills and knowledge needed to lead and participate in clinical trials. By fostering a diverse group of researchers, the program helps ensure that clinical trials are more inclusive, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for all communities. Applications for the September Cohort are still open! If you're passionate about advancing health equity and diversifying the landscape of clinical research, this program is for you. Join a network of like-minded professionals committed to making a difference in medicine. Apply today and be part of the change: https://heyor.ca/s6V4kh #DiversityInResearch #HealthEquity #ClinicalTrials #NMF #ApplyNow

How do stigmas within our diverse communities affect our perception of mental health? Stigmas can create barriers to seeking help, leading to feelings of isolation, shame, and fear of discrimination. This is particularly prevalent in BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities, where mental health challenges are often misunderstood or minimized. Mental Health America provides an insightful overview of these issues, highlighting how negative attitudes and cultural misconceptions can prevent individuals from accessing necessary care. It's crucial to create safe spaces where differences are respected, and open, stigma-free discussions about mental health can occur. Share your thoughts with us below. 💡 #MentalHealth #Stigma #BIPOC #HealthEquity #NMF

Are you an NMF alumni or scholar? Join us at TAO Uptown for NMF @ NMA, a Community Gathering this Sunday, August 4, 2024, from 2 - 4 p.m. ET! Enjoy an afternoon of friendship, community, laughter, and fellowship with us! Connect with other health professionals and hear remarks from our President and CEO, Michellene Davis, Esq. and Board Chair, Dr. Bryan Baugh. Let us know that you’re coming: https://lnkd.in/gmgcFq-S #NMFAlumni #NMFScholar

Sonya Massey's death is a profound and painful reminder of the pervasive police brutality and systemic oppression that disproportionately impacts Black women and marginalized communities every day. Violence is a public health crisis—Sonya’s story is not just an isolated incident, but a reflection of a deeply entrenched issue that demands our immediate attention and collective resolve. A 2017 report by the African American Policy Forum revealed that Black women are 1.4 times more likely to be killed by police than their white counterparts, and from 2015 to 2016, nearly 60% of all female victims of police killings were women of color. This is not just a social or legal issue— it is a public health crisis that affects the well-being and safety of entire communities. At National Medical Fellowships (NMF), we unequivocally reject these injustices as the norm. We are unwavering in our commitment to justice, equality, and dismantling the systems that perpetuate discrimination and violence. We understand that the fight against systemic oppression requires more than rhetoric; it necessitates tangible, sustained action. The life of #SonyaMassey mattered. Her dreams, aspirations, and contributions to her community mattered. As we mourn her loss, we also renew our commitment to forging a world where Black women, and all individuals from diverse backgrounds, can live without fear of violence or oppression. We stand in solidarity with Sonya's family, friends, and all those affected by this tragedy. Together, we will continue to fight for justice, equity, and a future where everyone can thrive. May we never forget her name and never waver in the pursuit of a just and equitable society. #RestInPower. SAY HER NAME. SONYA MASSEY, SONYA MASSEY, SONYA MASSEY Source: African American Policy Forum. (2017). Say Her Name: Resisting Police Brutality Against Black Women.

How do stigmas within our diverse communities affect our perception of mental health? Mental Health America broke down mental health stigma in BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities, giving an overview of negative or discriminatory attitude someone holds about mental health and how we can create safe spaces by respecting our differences. Share your thoughts with us below and stay in touch for part two of mental health stigmas. 💡 Source: Mental Health America #MentalHealth #Stigma #BIPOC

National Medical Fellowships, Inc. is proud to see our alumni making waves and changing the world!! Congratulations to Young Black Pharma for securing NMF alumni Ted W. Love, MD as your keynote. He is the hope and the dream of those who came before him just as you are! #DiversityinClinicalTrials

Will you be attending the National Medical Association Conference? Are you a supporter of diversity in medicine, health equity, the elimination of healthcare disparities? Then join us at our CommunityGathering at NMA! Join National Medical Fellowships, Inc. on the health equity journey and Donate today!