@article{10.22454/FamMed.2026.805373,
author = {Abara, N. Ogechi and Fernandez Montero, Yulsi L. and Yole–Lobe, Menerva and Belt, Brandis and Baluchi, Donna and Washington, Judy C. and Rodríguez, José E.},
title = {Who Am I to Who I Am: The Identity-Driven Career},
journal = {Family Medicine},
volume = {58},
number = {6},
year = {2026},
month = {6},
pages = {401-403},
doi = {10.22454/FamMed.2026.805373},
abstract = {Underrepresented minorities in medicine often have experiences shaped by external perceptions of their identity. This article introduces the concept of an identity-driven career, where individuals intentionally integrate personal identity into professional roles, leveraging lived experiences to advance scholarship and service. We explore how identity enriches family medicine by fostering trust, addressing health inequities, and creating inclusive learning environments. However, leaders can weaponize identity and assign roles based on perceived identity. Individuals who experience this frequently may feel trapped in an identity-defined career. We propose strategies to mitigate these inequities, including institutional support for faculty autonomy, equitable distribution of diversity efforts, and incentives to encourage participation by faculty who are not underrepresented in medicine. Family medicine, with its undisputed leadership diversity, is uniquely positioned to lead this transformation. Identity-informed approaches can enhance research, education, and patient care while promoting equity across specialties.},
URL = {https://journals.stfm.org//familymedicine/2026/june/rodriguez-0353/},
eprint = {https://journals.stfm.org//media/jcplgaj5/fammed-58-401.pdf},
}