The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has released findings from a civil rights investigation into the Duke University School of Medicine. The report documents discriminatory practices that disproportionately affected minority students and patients, violating federal civil rights statutes.

OCR’s investigation uncovered patterns of bias in admissions, clinical training, and patient care, including inadequate accommodations for non‑English‑speaking patients and a lack of diversity in faculty representation. The findings highlight systemic failures that have perpetuated inequities within the institution.

Duke has pledged to implement comprehensive reforms, including revised admissions policies, expanded diversity training, and new oversight mechanisms to ensure compliance with civil rights laws. The university’s commitment underscores the broader demand for accountability and justice in academic medicine.

Source: HHS.gov