08/17/2026
In a new study published by Columbia Mailman School of Public Health, GS Dean Lisa Rosen-Metsch worked alongside Postbac Premed Program Dean James Colgrove, lead author Rae Chang '23CC (a 2023 GS Honorary Owl recipient!🦉), and co-author Nicholas Ganek '20GS to highlight the stigma of disclosure within the healthcare system.
Research across 1,240 physicians and dentists nationwide found:
➡️ 82.5% believed that substance history would impact their admissions decision
➡️ 50% believed the risk still existed even if it was their reason for pursuing medicine
"Whether or not these perceptions reflect actual admissions decisions, they reveal a widespread belief among physicians and dentists that disclosing a history of substance use carries professional risk," said Dean Rosen-Metsch.
Read the full study: https://www.publichealth.columbia.edu/news/most-physicians-dentists-believe-disclosing-past-substance-use-medical-dental-school-applications-could-hurt-admissions-prospects