Diversity is described as the full range of human similarities and the differences in group affiliation

  Diversity is described as the full range of human similarities and the differences in group affiliation including gender, race/ethnicity, social class, role within an organization, religion, sexual orientation, physical ability, and other group identities. The demographics of the United States have changed dramatically in the past three decades and will continue to change. These changes are reflective in the patients we serve and our healthcare workforce. These changes are affecting the delivery of health services from both the patients and the employee's perspective. We may have an unconscious bias that affects the way we interact with others. Identify a theory that may explain why we treat people of certain genders, gender identities, sexual orientations, races, ethnicities, and/or ages differently. Pick one dimension to explore in depth (i.e. race, ethnicity, country-of-origin, religion, sexual orientation, sexual identity, age). Explore if this is an issue in healthcare as it relates to quality-of-care, access-to-care, workforce, and leadership. Using theory and existing literature make a case as to why this is important for healthcare organizations to address and how we can address this issue in a diverse workforce. It is recommended that you address the issue of "diversity," "equity," and "inclusion" in your exploration of this issue. Possible deliverables - you do not have to address these, but these are just ideas in case you are stuck. Using current literature, describe the current environment as it relates to diversity in healthcare How can we address unconscious biases and why is this important to the delivery of care? What are the ramifications of unconscious biases if these issues are not addressed? Can organizations be diverse but not inclusive? How can we address that? What are the barriers/facilitators to addressing these issues? Using established literature how can we effectively address these issues? How can organizations build open and supporting environments?