Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: First Steps for CPD Providers

CE News (01/23) Chan, Teresa; Bryan, Jennifer

There are several steps continuing professional development (CPD) providers can follow to incorporate diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in medical education. Providers should first familiarize themselves with DEI through training resources like the Association of American Medical Colleges' DEI Initiatives site, the Stanford Anti-Racism and Allyship 7 Day Journey and San'yas Anti-Racism Indigenous Cultural Safety Training Program. "Build upon the work of others so that you can be more successful in a quicker and more efficient manner," write McMaster University Professor Teresa Chan, MD, MHPE, FRCPC, DRCPSC, and University of Toronto Professor Jennifer Bryan, MD, MA, MSPH, FRCPC. The next step involves crafting specific, measurable, actionable, relevant and timely (SMART) process and outcome goals for DEI programs. The authors suggest using the principle of "nothing about us without us" from accessibility literature and including individuals with personal experience of a given topic on the education team. They also note that delivery mechanisms should be considered and leadership structures should be rethought to improve equity. Finally, providers should compose a statement about DEI's value in describing the CPD event and what they expect from educators and participants.

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