Unpacking DEI: Advancing Patient Care in Otolaryngology

The episode begins with Erynne breaking down what DEI means to her. She mentions how there is a misconception in grouping diversity, equity, and inclusion all together but instead needing to look at each element individually for what they mean, instead of just “checking off a check box.” Connecting to this, Erynne brings up the importance of DEI efforts in the field of Otolaryngology as it reflects the importance of patient care, in a population that is constantly evolving in diversity, and it emphasizes the role of diversifying the field to match the patient population.

Focusing on DEI efforts, at UCSD-Sacramento where Erynne practices, she mentions the DEI efforts that her department has made in recruiting diverse residents and attendings. She emphasizes to continue to push the narrative for why it is important within the field and further, how it impacts patient care.

Erynne then delves into DEI initiatives within the Otolaryngology workforce from her perspective of being a part of the Academy of Otolaryngology DEI committee and mentions her work in building curriculum teaching DEI for residents and the challenges that comes with it.

Gopi and Erynne then end the episode talking about efforts in delivering equitable care, health equity research and recent legislative actions in certain areas of the U.S that have restricted DEI efforts. Erynne emphasizes that even in areas across the country with bans against DEI initiatives, it is still important to speak up about these issues, to continue to teach and educate policy makers to see the impact of these bans on marginalized communities and that DEI efforts aren’t political but instead a human rights initiative.