Abstract
ABSTRACT
Purpose. This qualitative, phenomenological study was an effort to investigate the lackof diversity in health care leadership and the perceived barriers to career advancement.
Theoretical Framework. The critical race theory and career development theory formed
the lens used to assess the phenomenon in this study.
Methodology. Ten participants were interviewed for this study. Participants’ identities
were kept anonymous. Emergent themes were identified and provided a comprehensive
interpretation of the participants’ lived experiences.
Findings and Conclusion. This study revealed that African Americans experience
numerous microaggressions that they perceive as barriers to their health care career
progression. In addition, the study discovered that African Americans having mentors not
only was beneficial to their career progressions in health care but also was vital for their
executive career attainment.
Recommendations. The findings of this study may prompt social modifications by
providing African Americans who aspire to attain health care executive leadership roles
insight on the challenge management mechanisms and thus build genuine trust among the
African American community that leads to a better health outcome.