A new study from the JAMA Network identified six factors healthcare organizations can use to foster inclusion in the workplace.
The research team collected 315 responses from healthcare system executives, staff, academic faculty and students at six hospitals, four health schools and a university-based health system to develop the study.
Here are five study insights:
1. The six factors JAMA Network identified as inhibitors to inclusion were:
● Presence of discrimination
● The silent witness (people who witness discrimination)
● The interplay of hierarchy, recognition and civility
● The effectiveness of organizational leadership and mentors
● Support for work-life balance
● Feeling excluded from inclusive efforts
2. The study found less inclusive workplaces have a negative effect on job performance, which can lead to lower quality care.
3. The lack of leadership and mentors was a factor affecting diversity in the workplace. Study respondents said those in leadership positions tend to hire and mentor those who have similar demographics rather than branching out to include others.
"Leaders should foster general civility, encourage everyone to speak up against discriminatory acts and promote policies that advocate for all members of their organization," the researchers said.
4. To make healthcare organizations more inclusive, JAMA recommended creating a culture and structure that supports those who witness discrimination, as well as expanding collegial networks.
5. "How we approach both evaluating and addressing inclusion within healthcare learning and work environments will shape the complex dynamics between the diversity of our healthcare workforce, the wellness of that workforce and the care we provide to diverse patient populations," the researchers concluded.
Click here to read the full study.