J Natl Med Assoc
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Research on the effects of increasing workplace diversity has grown substantially. Unfortunately, little is focused on the healthcare industry, leaving organizations to make decisions based on conflicting findings regarding the association of diversity with quality and financial outcomes. To help improve the evidence-based research, this umbrella review summarizes diversity research specific to healthcare. We also look at studies focused on professional skills relevant to healthcare. The goal is to assess the association between diversity, innovation, patient health outcomes, and financial performance. ⋯ Diversity can help organizations improve both patient care quality and financial results. Return on investments in diversity can be maximized when guided deliberately by existing evidence. Future studies set in the healthcare industry, will help leaders better estimate diversity-related benefits in the context of improved health outcomes, productivity and revenue streams, as well as the most efficient paths to achieve these goals.
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There are considerable gender and racial disparities in academic promotions regardless of academic qualifications, suggesting bias. The investigators studied the academic promotions process by simulating the work of Advancement, Promotion and Tenure (APT) committees and applying a mathematical model to assess the impact of diversity on consensus reaching. ⋯ While there was not enough statistical power to measure intragroup differences, the model shows promise in illuminating how individual perceptions, committee composition and group dynamics sway consensus reaching. The model also suggests that social research, community engagement and diversity work do not carry the same weight as traditional scholarship, impacting the career trajectory of minority scholars. The model can be used to evaluate bias not only in academic promotions but also in admissions, hiring and grant review. This will allow improved methods and processes for equitable academic performance reviews, enhancing the career trajectory and retention of minority scholars.