8 OCTOBER 2024IN MY OPINIONIN MY OPINIONDr. Tinamarie Estes, Director of Nursing, Allegheny Health NetworkBuilding a Culture of Equity and Inclusion: How Top-Down Support Drives DEI Success in HealthcareThrough this article, Dr. Tinamarie Estes, discusses the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in healthcare organizations, particularly hospital networks. They highlight the role of leadership, dedicated resources and collaboration with frontline workers in achieving true DEI. The author also emphasizes the impact of DEI on patient care, employee satisfaction and overall organizational success.In today's healthcare landscape, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) are no longer just buzzwords; they are essential for building a thriving organization. This is especially true for hospital networks, where a diverse workforce and inclusive environment directly impact patient care, employee satisfaction and overall organizational success.However, achieving true DEI requires more than just good intentions. It demands a concerted effort from the organization's top, with leadership actively championing the cause and investing in dedicated resources. This is where the Networks Nursing DEI Council and the Enterprise Equitable Health Institute (EEHI) play a crucial role.INVESTING IN DEI: A COMMITMENT TO SUCCESSThe organization's commitment to DEI is evident in its decision to invest in the creation of the EEHI. EEHI, led by the SVP Enterprise Chief Clinical Diversity and Equity Officer, drives DEI initiatives across the entire AHN/Highmark footprint. This dedicated team focuses on improving patient, employee and community DEI through various strategies, including:· Education: Providing comprehensive training programs for staff at all levels to foster understanding and awareness of DEI principles.· Policy Change: Reviewing and revising existing policies to ensure they are equitable and inclusive, addressing potential biases or barriers.· Hiring Practices: Implementing fair and unbiased recruitment processes to attract and retain a diverse workforce that reflects the communities served.·Mentorship: Creating mentorship programs to support the career development of underrepresented staff and foster a culture of belonging.The organization recognizes the importance of investing in DEI efforts and empowering nursing leadership to drive change. This commitment is demonstrated through:· Non-Productive Hours: Providing dedicated non-productive hours for Nursing Equity Officers to organize and implement DEI initiatives, ensuring they have the time and resources to make a meaningful impact.· Budgetary Support: Allocating a budget for the tools and resources needed to engage, educate and showcase DEI Dr. Tinamarie Estes
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