For Black History Month, UNMC celebrates the achievements and contributions of Blacks and African Americans and encourages the community to reflect on our nation’s history. A series of activities are planned throughout February. UNMC also will highlight the perspectives of Black health professionals at the medical center.
Today, UNMC Today recognizes Brian Armstrong, MD, UNMC Department of Ophthalmology.
Why is it important that we celebrate Black history in health care?
It’s well established that the field of health care benefits from people of different backgrounds and perspectives working together to solve today’s health issues. Black History Month is an opportunity to celebrate and appreciate Black trailblazers who broke down barriers to enable health care providers like me to have a seat at the table today, diversifying and augmenting the trajectory of health care. I see it as my job to continue the legacy of high-quality care that Black health care professionals tread ahead of me. Black History Month also is a reminder of how much more we still need to accomplish to address inequities in health care. We continue to strive for a future where everyone can come to the hospital and receive culturally appropriate and equitable health care. Although we work 365 days of the year to achieve this, Black History Month gives us an opportunity to focus our attention to it.
What has your journey been like as a Black health professional?
I’ve had a unique experience practicing medicine as a Black American physician both in the U.S. and internationally. In the U.S., I’ve seen and experienced many instances of prejudice, and as with many underrepresented minorities in medicine, it propelled me to work harder to overcome misconceptions and prove to myself that I belong. I also practiced in the United Arab Emirates, where patients were focused mostly on nationality, not the color of my skin. Being an American-trained physician was what set me apart in that environment, as patients were eager for a Western approach regarding their care. Moreover, working alongside caregivers from different backgrounds and nationalities broadened my perspective and made me a better doctor. I was inspired by my colleagues, and I bring that perspective to my work here at Nebraska Medicine and UNMC, where there is a real appetite for an inclusive, diverse and global approach to the practice of medicine.
Welcome to UNMC Dr. Armstrong! We are very fortunate to have your expertise!
Appreciate your perspective, Dr. Armstrong! Thank you again for joining us at NM/UNMC!
We are very blessed to have you here at UNMC. Thank you for all you do for our patients!
Great reflection! Happy BHM!
Great to have you in our Omaha community!