Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
VAPAA strongly supports Diversity, Equity, Inclusion (DEI) initiatives and commits to promoting and fostering a culture based on the DEI principles.
As PAs, we all have a role in promoting DEI across our profession. The first step is educating ourselves. Below are some educational resources.
Diversity = the differences across race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, (dis)ability, religion, political view, education, socio-economic background, veteran status.
Equity = equal opportunity and fair distribution of resources for PAs and the Veteran patients they serve. Also for them to achieve their full potential in all aspects of health and well-being
Inclusion = the practice involving PAs and Veteran patients from all backgrounds and making them feel welcomed and respected.
Education/CME/Resources
Think Culture (HHS.gov): free AAPA category 1 CMEs, offered by the Office of Minority Health and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and to help health care professionals with cultural competence in health care. It will also promote self-awareness about attitudes, beliefs, biases, and behaviors that may influence clinical care.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Resource Center: AAPA category 1 CME activities, free for AAPA members
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Training - Office of Resolution Management, Diversity & Inclusion (ORMDI) (va.gov): list of learning activities for VA employees in TMS (Talented Management System).
Health Equity Guiding Principles for Inclusive Communication | Gateway to Health Communication | CDC
Minority Health and Health Equity - CDC
Ending Structural Racism | National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Diversity Toolkit: A Guide to Discussing Identity, Power and Privilege | MSW@USC: designed for anyone who feels there is a lack of productive discourse around issues of diversity and the role of identity in social relationships, both on a micro (individual) and macro (communal) level.
The Importance of Diversity and Inclusion in the Healthcare Workforce - PMC (nih.gov) Stanford, Fatima Cody. "The Importance of Diversity and Inclusion in the Healthcare Workforce." J Natl Med Assoc. 2020 Jun;112(3):247-249.
Inclusive Language Guidelines (apa.org): "words matter. The words we use are key to creating psychologically safe, inclusive, respectful and welcoming environments."