A dynamic summit, “Pathways to a Healthier Future for All,” hosted by Pfizer, BlackDoctor.org and the National Medical Association (NMA) during the 2025 National Colloquium on African American Health, brought together over 85 leading healthcare experts and engaged participants to voice their opinions on workforce development and the 340B program.
Interactive Discussions on Workforce Challenges
The role of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital innovations in healthcare was a key point of discussion, with panelists and attendees weighing potential benefits and risks to patient outcomes. To gauge audience perspectives, participants were polled in real time about the possible impacts, revealing that a significant majority believe AI will improve efficiency and reduce administrative burdens.
The poll provided valuable insights into workforce challenges and potential solutions.
- Nearly half of the respondents identified the lack of mentorship and career pathways as the biggest barrier to recruiting and retaining a diverse healthcare workforce.
- A majority of respondents (86%) believe AI will improve efficiency and reduce administrative burdens.
Collaborative Examination of the 340B Program
During a panel on 340B reform, audiences were polled again, providing a pulse on current insights into this polarizing topic.
- More than half of respondents believe 340B program reform should be addressed at both the state and federal levels, while 43% believe it should be addressed at the federal level.
- Additionally, 40% of participants indicated that the 340B program is used as intended, to increase access to care for all patients.
- When asked about how they will take action, the highest number of respondents expressed a commitment to learning multiple perspectives on the issue.
A Unified Call to Action
The summit culminated in a powerful call to action, uniting experts and participants in a shared commitment to drive change through data and patient narratives. Leaders underscored the critical role of leadership and the urgency of addressing concerning trends in representation in healthcare.
