What are some strategies for avoiding unconscious biases when providing care to diverse patients?

2 Educate yourself

The second step to avoid unconscious biases is to educate yourself about the diversity of your patients. You can learn about their cultures, beliefs, values, preferences, and experiences that may affect their health and well-being. You can also learn about the social determinants of health, such as income, education, environment, and access to services, that may create health disparities and inequities among different groups of people. You can use reliable sources of information, such as cultural competency training, guidelines, and resources, to enhance your knowledge and skills.

3 Communicate effectively

The third step to avoid unconscious biases is to communicate effectively with your patients. You can use respectful and inclusive language, avoid stereotypes and generalizations, and ask open-ended questions to understand your patients' perspectives and needs. You can also use active listening, empathy, and feedback to show your interest and concern. If you encounter language barriers, you can use professional interpreters or translation services to ensure clear and accurate communication. You can also use nonverbal cues, such as eye contact, gestures, and posture, to convey your respect and rapport.

4 Collaborate with others

The fourth step to avoid unconscious biases is to collaborate with others who can support your care. You can consult with your colleagues, supervisors, mentors, or experts who can provide you with feedback, guidance, or advice on how to handle complex or sensitive situations. You can also work with your patients' families, caregivers, community workers, or cultural brokers who can provide you with insights, information, or assistance on how to address your patients' needs and preferences. You can also participate in peer support groups, networks, or forums where you can share your experiences, challenges, and best practices with other case managers.

5 Evaluate your outcomes

The fifth step to avoid unconscious biases is to evaluate your outcomes and identify areas for improvement. You can use quality indicators, such as patient satisfaction, adherence, retention, and health outcomes, to measure the impact of your care on your patients. You can also use self-evaluation tools, such as reflective journals, checklists, or surveys, to assess your own performance, strengths, and weaknesses. You can also seek feedback from your patients, colleagues, or supervisors to identify your gaps, errors, or biases. By evaluating your outcomes, you can learn from your mistakes and improve your practice.

6 Commit to change

The sixth and final step to avoid unconscious biases is to commit to change and take action. You can set realistic and specific goals, such as learning a new skill, attending a workshop, or implementing a new strategy, to enhance your cultural competence and diversity in case management. You can also monitor your progress, celebrate your achievements, and reward yourself for your efforts. You can also advocate for change and promote a culture of diversity, inclusion, and equity in your workplace and in your profession. By committing to change, you can make a difference in your care and in your patients' lives.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?