Diversity equity and inclusion – these have become buzzwords in modern society. Some try to embrace them, others complain that they have to, claiming that they are unimportant. Yet, in fact, it is completely different – the three terms are crucial nowadays. Thus, today we will discuss diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, from the point of view of the healthcare industry. Why are they important and how to promote them? Learn by reading this article!
What is diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace?
Before we delve into the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion in a medical workplace, let’s explain these terms first. They are listed together for a reason – while separately they are still meaningful, you need to embrace all of them to truly build a better work environment. So, what is diversity, equity and inclusion?
- Diversity – In the workplace environment, diversity refers to the people who represent the workforce. It involves all the ways people are different, namely race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, physical abilities, religious beliefs, socioeconomic status, education background and more. It encompasses both visible and invisible characteristics that shape an individual identity.
- Equity – Creating a diverse workplace is just the first step, but to make it truly safe for the employees, they have to be treated equally. This is exactly what equity is about: creating a diverse workplace is just the first step, but to make it truly safe for the employees, they have to be treated equally. This is exactly what equity is about: fair treatment, access and advancement for all. It focuses on ensuring fairness and impartiality in the distribution of resources, opportunities, and outcomes, and its aim is to provide every person with the possibility to reach their full potential.
- Inclusion – It means creating an environment and workplace culture where all individuals feel valued, respected and empowered. Inclusion involves fostering a sense of belonging, encouraging collaboration and actively dismantling biases, stereotypes and exclusionary practices. It cannot be done alone – it is the combined effort of diverse individuals that drive innovation and positive change.
Why is diversity, equity and inclusion important in the workplace in healthcare?
We have already discussed how to prevent workplace violence in healthcare, and DE&I is one of the ways to do that. Unfortunately, although most instances of physical or mental harassment come from the patients or their visitors, there are still situations when a member of a hospital staff is targeted by a coworker. By ensuring diversity, equity and inclusion you can show support to the victims, and efficiently increase awareness and spread knowledge, leading to fewer instances of harassment in the future.
Another reason behind the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion in medical workplace are the stereotypes. Let’s take nurses for example – they are usually recognized as a typical job for women, while medical technicians are assumed to be all male. However, these beliefs can be really hurtful for those involved and discourage them for pursuing their dreams. Introducing DE&I is the way to slowly erase these stereotypes from the minds of both patients and the staff.
How to promote diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace?
If we want to see the future of healthcare in bright colors, it is absolutely crucial that we promote diversity, equity and inclusion in workplaces. But, how to do that?
- Change the recruitment procedures to be more exclusive
- Educate the people in charge
- Don’t ignore employee differences – embrace them instead
- Treat all employees with respect
- Write a strong, effective anti-discrimination policy and ensure that it is followed
Diveristy At ScribeAmerica
ScribeAmerica has a resilient obligation to the delivery of DEI initiatives. We understand the value of committing to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts can never be overstated. Here are some key reasons why such commitments are crucial to ScribeAmerica:
- Fostering Innovation and Creativity: Embracing diverse perspectives and experiences within ScribeAmerica leads to greater innovation and creativity. When employees with different backgrounds collaborate, they bring a wide range of ideas and approaches, leading to more robust problem-solving and novel solutions.
- Enhancing Decision-Making: Diverse teams can make better decisions. By incorporating a variety of viewpoints, companies can avoid groupthink and consider a broader range of possibilities, leading to more thoughtful and informed choices.
- Attracting and Retaining Talent: A commitment to DEI makes ScribeAmerica more attractive to top talent. Inclusive organizations are seen as more desirable places to work, as employees feel valued and supported
- Improving Employee Morale and Productivity: Inclusive workplaces foster a sense of belonging, where employees feel comfortable being themselves. This boosts morale, job satisfaction, and overall productivity.
- Contributing to Social Progress: By ScribeAmerica taking a proactive stance on DEI, we continue to contribute positively to social progress and be agents of change in addressing broader societal inequalities.
The takeaway
We hope that with these examples of how to promote diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, you will be able to make a meaningful difference in your facility. Everybody deserves to feel safe, respected and to maintain their identity – and it’s the role of every member of the medical staff to ensure that. Here at ScribeAmerica, DEI efforts are not just moral imperatives, but also strategic business decisions. We continue to encourage, support, and promote these standards and have active Employee Empowerment Groups to allow all of our employees the opportunity to contribute to our DEI initiatives. We prioritize our diversity, equity, and inclusion stand to benefit from improved performance, increased competitiveness, and a positive impact on society as a whole.
Did you find this article useful? Consider reading: How to Improve Patient Experience?
