12. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Why It Matters with Dr. Laverne Thompson

How do racial and gender bias, discrimination, and microaggressions affect health outcomes? Why does it matter? Can we really make a difference?This week, I have the pleasure of being joined by Dr. Laverne Thompson to discuss how we can all make the workplace a more inclusive space for everyone involved.Dr. Thompson was born in Rochester, NY. She attended Allegheny College in Meadville, PA before attending medical school at Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences in Buffalo, NY. She went on to complete her surgical residency at the Case Western Reserve University Hospitals Program in Cleveland, OH. During residency, Dr. Thompson was able to actualize her vision of supporting diversity in medicine while creating professional cultures of understanding and support. She created the Cultural Humility Series in the Department of Surgery to teach faculty about systemic bias, healthcare disparities, and microaggressions. The series continues to review patient outcomes affected by bias and find strategies to improve the health system. Additionally, she was able to explore her passion for education and resident advocacy through multiple avenues. She has demonstrated her commitment to these endeavors through research, several leadership positions in her local GME office, and appointment as Administrative Chief Resident for her program.Featured in this episode: How microaggression can build up over time for medical personnel How internalizing issues lead to burnout and increased employee turnover It’s not just about people’s “feelings” How to incorporate DEI principles into Morbidity and Mortality conferences Building systems and curriculums to educate staff on bias and microaggressionsSubmit your questions on anything and everything women's health-related and we will answer them in one of our episodes.Want more from Our Womanity?If you enjoyed this episode of Womanity, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us continue to bring you engaging and empowering content.Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drrpope TikTok: @vulvadoctor Twitter: @drrpope LinkedIn