Inclusive language plays a critical role in achieving equitable healthcare. It ensures that everyone feels valued and respected, regardless of their background or identity. It helps in creating a welcoming environment and promotes trust between the clinician and patient, which is essential for delivering high-quality care.
Recently, I read an article published by Harvard Business Review titled “Equitable Health Care Requires Inclusive Language”. This article resonated with me as a seasoned healthcare executive and an inclusive leader. It is important for clinicians to not discriminate against patients, but to provide an inclusive environment for all patients. The article offers six principles of inclusive communication that clinicians should keep in mind.
The six principles are -
- Consider the impact of discrimination
It is important for clinicians to understand the sensitivity of the terms they use while communicating with patients. Clinicians should avoid implying that a certain population is responsible for their increased risk.
“Instead of adjectives such as “vulnerable” and “high-risk,” consider descriptors such as “marginalized” or “under-resourced.” Instead of racially coded words like “inner city” or “urban,” describe the area itself (“city center” or “downtown”).”
2. Address systematic health inequities
Engagement and communication can help in developing unbiased communication strategies. This can result in building and promoting trust between the clinician and patient, which is essential for positive health outcomes.
3. Remember intersectionality
Many people belong to different groups, and sometimes even more than one group. As such, they may have overlapping health and social inequities. This should be considered while communicating with the patients.
“ Kaiser Permanente research found that people from different parts of Asia had a significantly different prevalence of chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.”
4. Recognise diversity
Language should be adapted to the community you are trying to reach and the interventions should be tailored to their situation.
“Emphasize positive solutions that highlight community strengths and recognize that some may not follow public health recommendations because of cultural norms, beliefs, or practices.”
5. Promote health literacy
“Provide plain-language health materials in the languages that patients speak, train health professionals in best practices, and review health materials such as insurance forms and medication instructions with community members to ensure they understand the information and actions to take.”
6. Keep in mind that context matters
Language is constantly evolving and context is always crucial. For example, what works for one clinician and their patient cannot be generalized.
In summary, using inclusive language is essential for achieving equitable healthcare. By being mindful of the words and phrases we use, we can create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all patients, and ensure that everyone receives the care they need and deserve.
Read the full article here.
Dia Nichols is a health care executive, well-rounded business strategist, and adept manager of people. Skilled at turning crises into opportunities, he has over two decades of experience in providing fiscal, strategic, and operational leadership in challenging situations and complex environments. His seasoned ability to adapt and pivot, coupled with a deep understanding of market and industry trends, has enabled him to guide businesses and boards to new horizons.
