Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is more than just a collection of buzzwords or political noise. They are real, important and necessary components to provided excellent, compassionate and culturally appropriate care to all of our patients. EDs across the country are looking for ways to incorporate the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion. To do this effectively needs both a bottom-up and top-down approach.
This study details the results of a top-down approach to incorporate diversity, equity and inclusion at a very large ED system. Leaders on every level of their organization participated in book clubs followed by a guided discussion of one of 9 themes- examination of privilege, initial reaction to discussion about racism, discomfort, worry, self-reflection, release, role recognition, readiness, and education.
The results showed that all participants were able to move from a feeling of paralysis due to the enormity of the challenges and defensiveness, to a release of that paralysis with a commitment to move the organization forward in a positive way.
References
Showing up to the conversation”: Qualitative reflections from a diversity, equity, and inclusion book club with emergency medicine leadership
