Nursing's Critical Role in Driving Toward Health Equity: One Organization's Experience

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Disparities
• Nursing Equity
• Antiracism in Healthcare

Background:

• Growing discourse in nursing communities highlights healthcare disparities linked to racism.
• A pediatric healthcare setting recognized the need for targeted interventions to address these disparities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a nursing program developed to address healthcare disparities stemming from racism.
• To outline an organization's strategic approach to advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, and antiracism within its nursing practices.

Main Methods:

• A multidisciplinary team identified 33 projects focused on four key drivers of health equity.
• The projects were categorized under: diverse nursing workforce, inclusive nursing culture, learning and growth opportunities, and equitable nursing care.

Main Results:

• The organization implemented a comprehensive nursing program targeting equity, diversity, inclusion, and antiracism.
• This initiative aimed to dismantle systemic barriers contributing to healthcare disparities.

Conclusions:

• Addressing healthcare disparities requires a multifaceted approach focusing on workforce diversity, inclusive culture, professional development, and equitable care.
• The described program offers a model for other healthcare organizations seeking to combat racism and promote health equity.