The terms diversity and inclusion have a number of definitions and concepts associated with them. In your own words, define the terms diversity and inclusion.
There are numerous benefits and advantages of having a diverse workplace environment, especially in healthcare. Discuss in detail two benefits or advantages to having a diverse and inclusive workforce environment and how each improves patient experience and outcomes.
Lastly, identify and describe a situation that you might encounter in your role as an allied healthcare provider where it would be necessary to exhibit and display diversity awareness skills and knowledge to resolve the situation that is beneficially for everyone involved. This situation might be between you and patient or a coworker. Make sure you discuss why diversity awareness skills and knowledge would be necessary to resolve the situation.
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Introduction:
Diversity and inclusion are crucial elements in any workplace environment, especially in healthcare. As a medical professor, it is essential to educate college students about the significance of diversity and inclusion in the healthcare industry. In this article, we will discuss the definitions of diversity and inclusion, their benefits in the healthcare industry, and the need for diversity awareness skills and knowledge.
Answer:
1) Diversity refers to the unique characteristics that make individuals different from one another, such as age, gender, race, religion, culture, and disability, among others. In contrast, inclusion refers to creating a supportive and respectful workplace environment that embraces these differences and allows everyone to contribute their full potential, regardless of their background or identity. Inclusive workplaces are those where diversity is valued, respected, and appreciated.
2) There are numerous benefits of having a diverse and inclusive workforce in healthcare. For instance, a diverse workforce can improve access to care for diverse patient populations. Patients are more likely to feel comfortable and understood when their healthcare providers share some of their cultural or linguistic backgrounds. Inclusion also helps healthcare providers understand and appreciate cultural and linguistic differences in their patients. Additionally, diverse healthcare teams can improve patient outcomes by reducing healthcare disparities and improving communication and patient satisfaction.
3) As an allied healthcare provider, I might encounter a situation where I need to exhibit diversity awareness skills and knowledge when working with patients from different cultural or linguistic backgrounds. For example, I might encounter a patient who refuses to receive care from a healthcare provider of a different gender or cultural background. In such a situation, it is crucial to respect the patient’s wishes but also explain to them the importance of receiving care from the most appropriate and qualified healthcare provider available. Utilizing diversity awareness skills such as active listening, empathy, and cultural competence can help in resolving such a situation and maintain a positive and respectful relationship with the patient.
