St. Anthony: Medical professions in Minnesota need more people of color in their ranks

Dr. Brandi Gorden Klukas and nurse Tykia Hess overcame tremendous obstacles to become medical professionals. And the medical community needs more people like them.

“Patients are more likely to have a trusted relationship with a provider when they deal with someone who looks like them,” said Tonya Jackman Hampton, human resources chief at Hennepin Healthcare. “We try to build everyone’s cultural competency. To relate to individuals, provider or patient, and to be open and respectful. And remain humble in the journey.”