Rooted in Community.
Built for Your Journey.
We are the Bay Area chapter of the National Medical Association, committed to eliminating health disparities and supporting underrepresented physicians. Through mentorship, scholarships, and advocacy, we empower medical professionals and students from diverse backgrounds to thrive at every stage of their careers—so they can succeed and lead the future of healthcare.
6%
Black physicians make up less than 6% of all doctors in the U.S.
200
We are a network of 200 physicians strong—and growing
$1M
We have provided over $1 million in support to fuel the dreams and break barriers for underrepresented students
50
For over 50 years, we have been a steady pulse of support, advocacy, and connection for doctors in the Bay Area
Too Few Black Doctors,
Too Many Barriers
Physicians from underrepresented backgrounds make up a small percentage of the U.S. medical workforce—a figure that has remained stagnant for decades. This lack of representation affects patient care, as communities disproportionately impacted by chronic illness and maternal mortality are less likely to be treated by doctors who understand their lived experiences. At Sinkler Miller, we’re committed to building a more equitable future in healthcare by supporting and empowering underrepresented doctors to not only enter the field—but thrive in it.
Here’s how we do it:
Networking opportunities to strengthen professional connections
Recruitment and retention efforts to increase the number of physicians to reflect the demographics of the community
Pathway programs to support high school and undergraduate students interested in medicine
Scholarships to ease financial burdens
A Legacy of Excellence
The Founders Who
Paved the Way
The Sinkler Miller Medical Association stands on the shoulders of giants—two pioneering physicians who saw the urgent need to uplift doctors from our community and create a more just healthcare system.
Their vision wasn’t just about medicine—it was about justice, opportunity and ensuring that they had the resources to lead and serve all communities.
Dr. William Sinkler
A groundbreaking surgeon and educator, Dr. Sinkler was the first Black Chief of Surgery and Medical Director of Homer G. Phillips Hospital in St. Louis, a vital training ground for Black physicians when segregation barred them from other hospitals. He was one of the first Black Diplomates of the American Board of Surgery, and his impact stretched far beyond the U.S., training surgeons worldwide.
Dr. Rudolph Miller
A pioneer in urology, Dr. Miller was one of the first Black Diplomates of the American Board of Urology practicing in the Bay Area. He was not just a brilliant physician—he was an advocate, deeply involved in community affairs and committed to breaking barriers for all doctors.
The State of Health Equity in the Bay Area
Here in Oakland and the broader Bay Area, the disparities are just as stark:
Black babies in Alameda County are 3 to 4 times more likely to be born too early, too small, or die before their first birthday.
Black patients experience higher rates of misdiagnosis and undertreatment for pain and chronic conditions.
The Black physician workforce does not reflect the community and they are underrepresented in the medical field.
Meet the Doctors
Changing the Game Today
Our members are leading the charge in transforming healthcare in the Bay Area.
Dr. Joy Foster
a diagnostic radiologist advocating for women’s health
Dr. Ardis Martin
a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist prioritizing the importance of mental health
Dr. Leon Richmond
an OB-GYN focusing on advocating for better Black maternal health outcomes
The fight for health equity starts with racial concordance of care. This is why we exist. This is why we must keep going.
Stay Connected. Take Action. Make an Impact.
Whether you’re a pre-med or medical student seeking guidance, a physician looking for career support, or an advocate for health equity—you belong here. The Sinkler Miller Medical Association is dedicated to uplifting physicians and transforming healthcare. Here’s how you can get involved today.
Latest Resources
Understanding the challenges that physicians and patients face is the first step to creating change. Our latest articles and reports provide critical insights on health disparities, systemic barriers, and solutions that move us forward.
Upcoming Events
Our events are designed to empower physicians at every stage of their journey. Connect with mentors, gain career-changing insights, and engage in discussions that shape the future of health equity.
Scholarships & Pathway Program
Medical students face systemic barriers—but we’re breaking them down. Our scholarships and pathway programs provide the financial support, mentorship, and resources needed to ensure future physicians don’t just survive medical school—they thrive.
If you’re a student, this is your opportunity. If you’re a physician, this is your chance to give back.
Get Involved &
Support Physicians
Health equity starts with us—and we need you in this movement.
Medical Students: Find mentorship, funding and a community that wants to see you succeed
Physicians: Advance your career, build your network, and uplift the next generation
Advocates & Funders: Invest in real solutions that create lasting change
