Moving the Needle: Using Guidelines on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to Uplift a Stronger Medical Education...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Healthcare Diversity
• Gynecology and Obstetrics

Background:

• Racism and lack of diversity persist in medical education.
• The Association of Professors of Gynecology and Obstetrics established a task force to address these issues.
• Existing guidelines aim to create best practices for a diverse physician workforce.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Guidelines developed by the Association of Professors of Gynecology and Obstetrics.
• To highlight the work of individual educators implementing these guidelines.
• To inspire broader adoption of diversity and inclusion initiatives in medical programs.

Main Methods:

• The study utilizes the framework of the established Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Guidelines.
• The guidelines are organized into four domains: learning environment, grading and assessment, pathway programs, and metrics.
• The manuscript showcases examples of educators' work within this framework.

Main Results:

• Educators are actively using the guidelines to impact their communities.
• Implementation of the guidelines is leading institutions toward greater diversity and inclusion.
• Individual efforts are contributing to progress in creating racism-free healthcare environments.

Conclusions:

• The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Guidelines provide a robust framework for advancing diversity in medical education.
• The highlighted work demonstrates the practical application and positive impact of these guidelines.
• Continued implementation and inspiration are crucial for achieving racism-free healthcare.