Inclusivity in patient education and nurse training for health equity

A greater emphasis is being placed on advancing health equity to drive a healthier future. 

In today’s landscape, healthcare organizations and payers alike are seeking ways to strengthen parity across race and ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, and other factors. They are implementing patient education programs, nurse training, and other initiatives that meet their populations’ needs to strengthen health outcomes. Download the full white paper  opens in new tab/window

Inequitable access to healthcare and unaddressed SDOH have far-reaching impacts. In fact, racial disparities alone cost the U.S. an estimated $135 billion in excess medical costs and lost productivity each year. 

Effective communication is a pivotal factor influencing social determinants of health. According to a study by the Milken Institute, 88% of U.S. adults have limited health literacy which impairs patients’ ability to understand “the why” behind their care and make informed decisions about their health. It also hinders patients’ care compliance.  

“As we understand and address the inequities, structural racism, and injustices experienced by marginalized populations we serve, health equity has become a watchword of modern health care,” says Nkem Chukwumerije, MD, a national leader for equity, inclusion, and diversity at the Permanente Federation in a Harvard Business Review article.

By fostering an understanding of cultural sensitivity, health literacy, and social determinants of health, healthcare providers can significantly enhance the quality of care for all patients, but especially marginalized individuals. 

Download the white paper opens in new tab/window to learn how patient education and nurse training can play a significant role in addressing equitable care at your organization. 

Elsevier’s Clinical Nursing Solutions support your commitment to providing equitable care. Simulation environments offer a safe space where new nurses can practice interacting with a diverse collection of patients with rich personal and medical histories. Clinical eLearning courses offer DEI training to breakthrough barriers, unconscious biases, and exclusivity. Evidence-based, coordinated care plans guided by the patient’s story promote better clinical outcomes. Patient Engagement solutions account for individual learning styles, preferences, socioeconomic demographics, and health behaviors.

Learn more about these evidence-based digital content and tools to support your clinicians and patients.