Monthly News for Medical Students
The Scope is APEx’s way of connecting news, thoughts, and opportunities with medical student interests across our membership network. Scroll to read through our most recent issue. To view all issues and apply for opportunities, join our membership network today!
Spotlight for AAPI Heritage Month: Confronting Leadership Gaps in Orthapaedics
WRITTEN by Vinh Dang, APEx Student Member and Development Director
As we honor Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, it’s critical to recognize the ongoing disparities in medical leadership. A recent Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons study reveals that Asian American physicians—along with women, Hispanic, and African American colleagues—have significantly lower odds of attaining top leadership positions such as department chair in orthopaedic surgery. Despite their growing presence in the physician workforce, systemic barriers continue to limit access to the most influential roles.
At Aspiring Physician Executives (APEx), we are working to upend these disparities by equipping future leaders with the tools, networks, and mentorship needed to thrive. Through strategic partnerships and programming that centers on equity, APEx empowers medical students from all backgrounds to become transformative healthcare leaders who reflect the diversity of the communities they serve.
Our student members regularly submit op-eds on projects they’re passionate about. To apply and submit an op-ed, click the button below to join our student network.
UC Davis Health. Orthopaedic Trauma and Fractures. Accessed May 5, 2025
On May 2nd, APEx partnered with MSDCI and the AMA to host a virtual session featuring Dr. Stephanie Pearson, MD, FACOG, OB/GYN and founder of PearsonRavitz. Dr. Pearson shared essential tips on understanding and securing disability insurance as a medical trainee. Attendees gained practical tools to protect their income, career, and future—knowledge every rising intern and resident needs.
Join our student membership to view the recorded session and corresponding notes.
A Night at the Museum
A Night at the Mütter Museum: Bridging Medicine, History, and Community
On an early spring night in Philadelphia, our APEx team had the pleasure of joining The College of Physicians of Philadelphia for A Night at the Mütter Museum — an evening that celebrated both the rich legacy of medicine and the connections being forged by its future leaders.
Students and professionals alike enjoyed a unique opportunity to network over dinner with some of the most distinguished voices in the medical field, including:
Dr. Larry Kaiser, renowned surgeon and former CEO of Temple University Health System, who has long championed innovation in academic medicine.
Dr. Carolyn Asbury, whose career spans leadership in medical education and philanthropy.
Dr. Donna Brady Raziano, MD, MBA, FACP, AGSF, a geriatrician and healthcare executive focused on improving care for older adults.
Following dinner, attendees were treated to an exclusive after-hours experience at the Mütter Museum, where they explored one of the most iconic collections of medical oddities and historical artifacts in the country, guided by the incredible and passionate Mütter staff.
The College of Physicians of Philadelphia, founded in 1787, is one of the oldest professional medical organizations in the U.S. It’s home to the renowned Mütter Museum and leads educational programs that connect medicine, history, and public health.
About the College of Physicians of Philadelphia
Founded in 1787, the College of Physicians of Philadelphia is the oldest professional medical organization in the United States. It has long served as a hub for advancing medical knowledge, improving public health, and fostering dialogue between physicians and the broader public. It continues to do so through lectures, exhibits, and its one-of-a-kind museum.
About the Mütter Museum
The Mütter Museum was established in 1858 as a medical education resource and remains one of the most fascinating institutions in the world. Its mission is to help the public understand the mysteries and beauty of the human body and the history of diagnosis and disease. It houses everything from preserved anatomical specimens to antique medical equipment and poignant narratives of the people behind the science.
We are incredibly grateful to the College of Physicians of Philadelphia for hosting such a memorable evening, and we look forward to future collaborations that enrich our members’ understanding of both where medicine has been — and where it’s going.