A Policy Analysis of Mandatory Implicit Bias Training for Perinatal Nurses

Mandated maternal implicit bias training (IBT) is intended to raise awareness for health care professionals to reduce maternal health disparities. The United States has high maternal morbidity and mortality, with Black non-Hispanic women disproportionately affected. We conducted a policy analysis for maternal IBT with implications for nursing practice and developed recommendations for policy improvement. Additionally, a retrospective review was completed for the State of Illinois' legislative adoption of the mandated IBT for health care professionals. Bardach's Eightfold Path framework was applied to analyze Illinois' current policy implementation. We determined that IBT should be integrated as one element of a broader ongoing quality improvement effort, together with continuous professional development, to enhance its impact.