Educating for equity: A mapping of challenges and opportunities in medical training in contexts of social inequality

Introduction: Equity in medical education is a determining factor for the training of health professionals and the equitable distribution of medical services. However, socioeconomic inequalities persist that affect access and retention in medical training programs, limiting diversity in the field and perpetuating gaps in healthcare. This study aimed to conduct a scoping review to identify the main challenges and opportunities in medical education in contexts of social inequality. Methods: A scoping review was carried out following the Arksey and O'Malley methodological framework, complemented by the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Academic databases were searched to select studies published in the last ten years. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were established to ensure the relevance of the findings. Results: Various barriers were identified that limit access to medical education, including economic difficulties, the concentration of institutions in urban areas and the lack of inclusive policies. Likewise, strategies that have demonstrated effectiveness in promoting educational equity were analyzed, such as scholarship programs, community-based education, and curricular reforms. Conclusions: Despite progress, challenges persist in reducing inequalities in medical training. It is necessary to implement more inclusive policies and evaluate their impact on health equity. Future research should focus on the effectiveness of educational models that seek to reduce these gaps.