Abstract

Background & Introduction

Dr. Meta Loretta Christy was a trailblazing physician who broke barriers in racial and gender representation in the medical field, particularly in osteopathic medicine. As the first African American woman to earn a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree, Dr. Christy paved the way for future generations of minority physicians to pursue higher education and overcome unjust, systemic barriers. Dr. Christy not only made strides in osteopathic medicine but she also played a significant role in advocating for greater representation of African Americans and women in healthcare.

 

Objective

The research paper explores Dr. Christy's early life, medical education, the obstacles she faced as an African American woman in medicine, her professional achievements, and the legacy she left behind.

 

Methods

The research paper is a review article analyzing the life of Dr. Meta L. Christy and her contributions to the field of osteopathic medicine. The paper highlights her early life, the barriers she faced to practice medicine, achievements, and awards to note the impact of her influence.

 

Results

Dr. Meta L. Christy had many notable achievements throughout her lifetime, including opening her own practice in her own home and creating another clinic to provide for underserved communities. She practiced as a physician despite many speculations about osteopathic medicine in New Mexico at the time. She served on the board of director for the New Mexico Medical Association, and she was recognized by the Philadelphia College of Medicine and the New Mexico Historic Women Marker Initiative.

 

Conclusion

Dr. Christy's story demonstrates the lasting impacts of breaking racial and gender barriers in medicine, and she paved the way for women and minorities to achieve their dreams of higher education. Dr. Christy’s contributions are recognized today for diversifying the medical workforce and establishing health equity on a widespread level.