Equity of Care and Diversity are a Priority

The Institute for Diversity in Health Management this week released findings from its biennial survey “Diversity and Disparities: A Benchmarking Study of U.S. Hospitals.” While there’s been some progress, the simple fact is there hasn’t been enough in some key areas. The survey shows that almost every hospital collects demographic data on race, ethnicity, primary language and gender, but less than half are using that data to improve quality. It also shows that about 80 percent of hospitals now educate staff on cultural and linguistic factors affecting patient care and offer continuing education opportunities, but minorities continue to be underrepresented on hospital leadership teams and governing boards. This shines a light on the need to do better and accelerate progress. The AHA’s #123forEquity campaign is critically important to the effort to end health care disparities and advance diversity and inclusion. More than 1,100 hospitals and health systems have joined, but that isn’t enough—not by a long shot. Achieving care equity and greater diversity is a crucial part of solving America’s current—and future—health care challenges. If you’ve not already done so, please sign the pledge today.