Putting Diversity, Inclusion & Equity Into Practice: From Divisions to the Institution (2022 AMW)
2022 AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting & OTO Experience
For decades, Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery (OHNS) has lagged behind other specialties in terms of racial/ethnic representation throughout the field, from residents to faculty and departmental and national leadership. Black, Indigenous, and People of Color are traditionally considered to be underrepresented in medicine. OHNS has not significantly increased representation among these groups at the same rate as other specialties. In part due to limited numbers, it has been difficult to create an inclusive culture with an emphasis on recruitment, retention, and career advancement for underrepresented groups. National events around social justice have refocused the need for continued efforts to build capacity around diversity, inclusion, and equity within OHNS to strengthen our institutions and improve patient care. Multiple studies demonstrate the importance of ethnic and racial representation among physicians to improve patient outcomes and mitigate health care disparities. This presentation will cover tangible examples of how to imbue and sustain a commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equity within daily practice at an organizational level. The speakers will cover ongoing efforts within the context of a residency program, department, and institution that can be applied more broadly to any organization or practice setting. Efforts include processes to reduce bias in applicant selection and interviewing, build an anti-racist culture with a focus on allyship, and the role of top-down leadership. The presentation will serve as a primer to understanding the role of the individual and the organization in advancing a culture committed to inclusion and equity within OHNS.
Credits
CME:1.0, MOC:1.0