First-Generation and/or Low-Income (FGLI) Physicians in the US Physician Workforce

A first-generation and/or low-income (FGLI) background is one that is not readily visible to others. Nevertheless, its importance in the healthcare workforce has never been greater. A common definition for first-generation is a student, whose parent(s)/caregiver(s) did not complete a 4-year college degree, while low-income often applies to a household living near or below the poverty line. Rising levels of income inequality in the United States combined with unique challenges presented by the decentralized American healthcare system and the COVID-19 pandemic emphasize the importance of recognizing and celebrating this identity within healthcare. Still, what is the rationale in terms of quality of patient care and educational training experiences for recruiting and supporting FGLI physicians in medicine? What are the challenges and potential solutions? This chapter will explore the existing data and highlight areas for future progress.