Examining intersectionality in anesthesiology training, academics, and practice

Area of Science:

• Health Disparities
• Medical Education
• Diversity Management

Background:

• Intersectionality, the overlap of social categorizations (race, class, gender), creates interdependent systems of discrimination and health disparities.
• Physicians trained in cultural competency improve patient-doctor interactions and reduce health inequities.
• Untrained staff engaging in microaggressions can lead to turnover and financial losses.

Purpose of the Study:

• Examine shortcomings in diversity management within anesthesiology.
• Propose frameworks to improve training, hiring, and retention in anesthesiology departments.
• Enhance care delivery to reduce health disparities.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on intersectionality in medical settings.
• Analysis of diversity management strategies in anesthesiology.
• Examination of existing diversity training effectiveness.

Main Results:

• Underrepresented minorities face disadvantages in academic rank, private practice partnerships, and research funding.
• Current diversity training often ignores intersectionality and portrays groups monolithically.
• Diversity initiatives can be politicized, perceived as irrelevant, or ineffective for organizational change.

Conclusions:

• Intersectionality presents significant challenges impacting patients, colleagues, and practice communities.
• Integrating intersectionality into education and policy can improve care for marginalized populations.
• Inclusive, equitable, and empowering cultures can reduce healthcare costs and normalize equitable practices.