Equity in Health Care.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Science
• Oncology Nursing
• Healthcare Equity

Background:

• The Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) has significantly contributed to oncology nursing in the US.
• ONS has established valuable resources and a professional community for oncology nurses.
• ONS's core values include innovation, excellence, advocacy, and inclusivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the need for equity as a core value within the Oncology Nursing Society.
• To advocate for the integration of equity into ONS's guiding principles and practices.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of ONS core values and mission statements.
• Analysis of current ONS initiatives in relation to equity.
• Comparative analysis of equity in professional nursing organizations.

Main Results:

• ONS has demonstrated commitment to innovation, excellence, advocacy, and inclusivity.
• A gap exists in the explicit articulation and integration of equity within ONS's stated values.
• Current ONS practices may not fully address systemic inequities in oncology care.

Conclusions:

• While ONS has strong foundational values, equity must be explicitly adopted and actioned.
• Integrating equity will enhance ONS's mission and the quality of oncology nursing care.
• Prioritizing equity is essential for advancing healthcare justice in oncology.