Seeking justice, equity, diversity and inclusion in pediatric nephrology

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Nephrology
• Health Equity
• Social Determinants of Health

Background:

• Health care disparities, inequity, and racism negatively impact children with kidney disease.
• Systemic biases affect chronic kidney disease care and transplant outcomes.
• The pediatric nephrology workforce lacks diversity.

Purpose of the Study:

• Define social determinants of health and their impact on pediatric nephrology.
• Outline the effects of racism on chronic kidney disease and transplant outcomes.
• Critique the diversity within the pediatric nephrology workforce.
• Propose strategies to dismantle bias, improve care access, and enhance workforce diversity.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on social determinants of health in pediatric nephrology.
• Analysis of systemic biases and racism in chronic kidney disease care.
• Assessment of diversity metrics in the pediatric nephrology workforce.
• Development of actionable strategies for inclusivity.

Main Results:

• Social determinants of health significantly influence pediatric kidney disease care.
• Racism and bias are linked to poorer chronic kidney disease and transplant outcomes.
• The pediatric nephrology field faces challenges in workforce diversity.
• Specific strategies are needed to address bias and improve inclusivity.

Conclusions:

• Acknowledging historical and current limitations is key to progress.
• Implementing strategies to combat racism and bias is essential.
• Cultivating inclusive training and practice environments is a primary goal.
• Dismantling bias will improve care for children with kidney disease.