Diversity and inclusion: the role of unconscious bias on patient care, health outcomes and the workforce in obstetrics and gynaecology.
Review
Overview
abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Although the business world has long recognized the benefits of diversity and inclusion and the effects of unconscious bias, the discourse is just now gaining traction in the medical field. In addition, many businesses have developed key initiatives to address unconscious bias in the workplace. RECENT FINDINGS: In the medical field, diversity leads to improved health outcomes, increased access to healthcare by the underserved and more innovation. However, unconscious bias may inadvertently propagate health disparities, affect trainee evaluations, hinder faculty satisfaction and exclude populations from meaningful research. SUMMARY: In this review, we discuss diversity, inclusion and unconscious bias in obstetrics and gynaecology, as it relates to patient care, health outcomes, medical faculty and trainees. We also discuss potential interventions that mitigate these issues.
