Implicit Bias Recognition and Management: Tailored Instruction for Faculty

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Healthcare Professional Development
• Bias in Medicine

Background:

• Implicit bias instruction is expanding in medical education.
• Limited guidance exists for faculty on managing implicit bias in clinical settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact and feasibility of single seminars on implicit bias management.
• To assess changes in faculty comfort and confidence regarding implicit bias.

Main Methods:

• Five departmental/divisional grand rounds were conducted across three academic medical centers.
• A 12-item pre- and post-intervention survey assessed changes in confidence and comfort.
• Qualitative analysis of free-text responses identified strategies for managing bias.

Main Results:

• 116 surveys (57% response rate) showed increased self-reported confidence and comfort.
• Qualitative analysis revealed themes of "looking inward," "looking outward," and "taking action."
• Participants identified context-specific strategies for bias recognition and management.

Conclusions:

• A single implicit bias seminar can enhance healthcare professionals' confidence and comfort.
• The seminar approach is feasible, scalable, and effective for initial training.
• Identified strategies can inform future skills-based interventions for bias management.