ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the equalities and diversity framework within which postgraduate medical and dental education operates. It analyses statistics on the trainee medical workforce. The chapter proposes that an effective response in medical education involves mainstreaming equalities and diversity in both training and service delivery. Diversity in postgraduate medical and dental education is best understood in context. A key influence is the standard expected of all doctors. The equalities and diversity frameworks provide direction for managing equalities in the trainee medical workforce. It is also important to consider this in the wider educational context. Against this backdrop of significant changes in the gender and ethnic make-up of the medical workforce it is understandable that concerns about unfair discrimination arose. The successful delivery of healthcare to a diverse population requires medical staff to be aware of the differing needs of individuals and groups.
