Bill > SR35

This resolution designates October 1, 2025, as "Pennsylvania Latino and Latina Physician Day" to raise awareness about the critical role of Latino and Latina physicians in addressing healthcare disparities. The resolution highlights the significant demographic shifts in the United States, noting that the Latino population is projected to grow from 42 million in 2005 to 128 million by 2050, and will likely represent one in four individuals nationally by 2050. It emphasizes the current underrepresentation of Latino and Latina physicians, who comprise only 6% of physicians nationally and less than 4% in Pennsylvania, despite comprising a growing portion of the population. The resolution underscores the importance of diversity in healthcare, pointing out that when physicians share the ethnicity, culture, and language of their patients, care and health outcomes improve. Additionally, it acknowledges the barriers faced by the Latino and Latina population in accessing medical care, including poverty, limited healthcare facilities, and language and cultural obstacles. By establishing this special day, the resolution aims to recognize the contributions of Latino and Latina physicians and draw attention to the need for increased representation and culturally competent healthcare.

Government Affairs

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=R&bn=35