Improving Quality and Safety In Your Endoscopy Unit: On-Demand | October 2022 OLQUALOCT22-12_Elmunzer_DEI

12_Elmunzer_DEI _Updated

Pdf Summary

This document discusses the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the field of gastroenterology (GI) and healthcare as a whole. It begins by defining diversity as the acceptance and respect of individual differences, and equity as the fair treatment and equal opportunities for growth and advancement. The document highlights the lack of diversity in GI, particularly in terms of race/ethnicity and gender, and emphasizes the need for more diverse experiences, values, and perspectives in order to improve problem-solving and innovation in healthcare.<br /><br />The document outlines the importance of underrepresented in medicine (UIM) groups, which includes concordance between patients and physicians, varying points of view, addressing healthcare disparities, and mentorship opportunities. It also discusses the benefits of a diverse healthcare workforce, such as working in underserved communities, improving patient access and adherence to treatment, promoting creativity and cross-cultural competence, and addressing healthcare disparities through research.<br /><br />To improve DEI in the healthcare workforce, the document suggests strategies such as eliminating bias in the hiring and promotion process, providing mentorship, promoting education and training, and creating an inclusive institutional culture. It emphasizes the need to recognize and address unconscious bias, conduct disparities assessments, evaluate executive and leadership teams, and create a safe space where micro-aggressions are addressed.<br /><br />Additionally, the document suggests celebrating diversity through the development of a multicultural calendar, culture-focused bulletin boards, educational opportunities, diversity training, and support for advancement opportunities. Overall, the document concludes that improving diversity in GI and healthcare requires continuous effort and involvement from the entire team, with a focus on assessment, leadership, institutional culture, and mentorship. It encourages organizations to view diversity as an ongoing process of learning, reflection, and growth.

Keywords

diversity

equity

inclusion

gastroenterology

healthcare

underrepresented in medicine

mentorship opportunities

healthcare disparities

unconscious bias

institutional culture