Internal Medicine Residency Program – Diversity, Equity + Inclusion

Encompasses all the ways in which individuals differ, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, socioeconomic status and physical abilities. Embracing diversity brings together unique perspectives, experiences and talents, enriching our learning environment and patient care.

Involves recognizing and addressing the unequal access and opportunities that our patients may face due to systemic and societal barriers.

Fostering an environment where our patients and community feel welcomed, heard, valued and respected. We aim to cultivate a culture that actively seeks and appreciates different perspectives, allowing everyone to learn from each other. 

DEI principles are integrated throughout our residency curriculum. We have developed specialized sessions that address topics to help residents recognize and mitigate biases, communicate effectively with diverse patient populations, and deliver equitable care. These sessions include:

• Noon conference lectures on diversity, equity, and inclusion topics, including LGBTQIA+ Care, Microaggressions, Trauma Informed Care, and Mistreatment of trainees. Topics this upcoming year will also include health disparities and health policy, food insecurity and health literacy.
• A two-week elective in Health Advocacy and Health Disparities, consisting of didactics, workshops, letter writing and participating in a health advocacy day at the State Capital.
• Bias Reduction in Medicine Training workshops.  
   

Residents can participate in a hospital-wide dedicated DEI Committee comprising faculty, residents, fellows, nurses and other ancillary staff members. The committee regularly reviews and enhances our DEI initiatives, ensuring that we remain committed to our goals of fostering an inclusive and equitable patient-care environment. 

Our residents are currently spearheading the creation of a house staff committee with the goal of fostering a community where residents can have additional community inside and outside of the hospital. The committee aims to address the specific needs and challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ residents, fostering a sense of belonging and advocating for positive changes within the residency program and the larger healthcare system.