Pilot testing of an online cultural competency training utilizing an intersectionality framework

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Health Disparities Research
• Implicit Bias Training

Background:

• Current implicit bias training for healthcare professionals has shown inconsistent results.
• Existing training often lacks an intersectional perspective and practical communication skills development.
• There is a need for more effective strategies to address implicit bias in medical settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate an online training program designed to decrease implicit bias among medical learners.
• To assess the impact of an intersectional approach and communication skills focus on knowledge, attitudes, and efficacy.
• To improve cultural competency and patient care through enhanced medical education.

Main Methods:

• Developed an online training module with foundational concepts, communication skills, and population spotlights (initially Black maternal health).
• Administered pre- and post-training surveys to 17 medical students, residents, and physicians.
• Utilized paired samples t-tests to analyze changes in knowledge, attitudes, and communication efficacy.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements were observed in participants' knowledge, attitudes toward addressing implicit bias and cultural competency, and communication efficacy.
• Participants rated the training as effective, useful, and engaging.
• Qualitative feedback provided insights for future training enhancements.

Conclusions:

• Training that integrates intersectionality and communication skills can effectively enhance medical learners' knowledge, attitudes, and communication efficacy.
• This approach offers a promising model for improving cultural competency in healthcare.
• Further development and implementation of such training are warranted to address health disparities.