FACTORS |
If we understand disparities in healthcare, we can also improve safety for underserved groups and people of color who often have higher rates of illness, harm and morbidity. Factors that increase safety risks include: bias in training and education, poor communication and (social, gender, linguistic) differences between provider and patient as well as under resourced health systems. |
CULTURAL SENSITIVITYHealthcare leaders can prioritize cultural sensitivity and resources to improve patient outcomes. Find resources at the Institute for Healthcare Improvement. → |
MAPPING INEQUITYDisparities drive health inequity. Compare your facility's performance to others through CMS, which maps medicare disparities. → |
HIDDEN DRIVERSHidden drivers of inequity include miscommunication, unequal resource allocation and lack of teamwork. The Brookings Institute explains the links. → |
EQUITY CERTIFICATIONGet accredited in health care equity, which is a National Patient Safety Goal. → |
SHAREAdd patient advocates with diverse backgrounds and language abilities. Overcome communication barriers and develop cultural competency. → |
MEASURE DISCRIMATIONUse this everyday discrimination scale to assess your organization. → |
OPERATIONALIZE EQUITY |
There are multiple steps practitioners and institutions can take to improve health outcomes. Find a few trainings, toolkits and practices below. |
MEASURE ITIncorporate equity measures and outcomes into existing quality and safety frameworks. → |
TRAIN STAFFTrain and educate all staff on equity priorities and practices to build their skills and competencies. → |
ENGAGE COMMUNIITESWork with community groups or advisory councils to get feedback and guide your practice area. The Institute for Diversity and Health Equity has toolkits to help. → |
