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Legacy: A Black Physician Reckons with Racism in Medicine by Dr. Uché Blackstock, MD, is not just a book; it's a profound exploration of the intersection between healthcare and systemic racism. I remember reading an excerpt from Dr. Blackstock's book in her opinion piece in The Washington Post titled "How Tens of thousands of Black U.S. Doctors Simply Vanished" and knowing this book would be the change we needed to see in the healthcare field. As I dove headfirst into the book with high expectations, I proudly say I wasn't disappointed. Legacy has, in many ways, exceeded my expectations.

From the outset, Dr. Blackstock's story captivated me. She has a beautiful way of seamlessly weaving personal anecdotes, historical context, and empirical evidence to construct a narrative that sheds light on the pervasive impact of structural racism on the health of Black Americans. One of the most enlightening aspects of the book is its exploration of the Flexner Report and its devastating consequences for Black medical institutions. Dr. Blackstock eloquently illustrates how the closure of these institutions not only hindered the training of Black physicians but also perpetuated health disparities that persist to this day.

What truly sets Legacy apart is its ability to translate complex sociopolitical issues into actionable insights for healthcare providers. Dr. Blackstock doesn't just diagnose the problem; she prescribes solutions. Her meticulous analysis highlights the urgent need for healthcare professionals to confront their implicit biases and advocate for systemic change within their institutions. As someone deeply committed to enhancing Black women's health, I found her recommendations practical and empowering.

However, the most potent aspect of Legacy is its examination of how racism manifests within the healthcare system. Dr. Blackstock doesn't shy away from uncomfortable truths, whether it's the underrepresentation of Black patients in clinical trials or the historical Legacy of medical experimentation on Black bodies. By confronting these issues head-on, she challenges readers to confront their complicity in perpetuating racial disparities in healthcare.

Even as a diversity and inclusion health educator, reading Legacy was a transformative experience. It challenged me to confront my own biases and complicity in a system that too often fails Black patients. But it also inspired me to take action. Dr. Blackstock's message is clear: we cannot afford to be passive bystanders in the fight against systemic racism. We must actively work to dismantle the structures that perpetuate inequality and injustice.

Legacy is not just a book; it's a call to arms. It's a rallying cry for healthcare providers, educators, and advocates to acknowledge their role in perpetuating racial disparities and commit to doing better. If you're ready to confront uncomfortable truths, challenge your assumptions, and take meaningful action to improve healthcare, then I urge you to read Legacy. Your patients—and your conscience—will thank you. Now is the time to act, to make a difference.

Purchase Legacy today and join me in the fight for health equity.