The Outpatient Registration & Insurance Verification Department has a number of existing diversity efforts. Some efforts include a diversity quizlette, multicultural calendar, holiday information, wall posters, informative e-mails, and handouts. Staff are also encouraged to attend the monthly Multicultural Health Series, Diversity Network offerings, and other University wide activities. Since staff is located at various sites, the department has two Diversity Internal Representatives. A collaborative effort has developed between the Outpatient Registration & Insurance Verification management team, staff, and the Diversity Representatives.
Outpatient Registration & Insurance Verification initiated efforts to increase staff self-awareness of their own biases, fears, and comfort levels. The department also wanted to address gaps in cultural competence. One new effort that has had an impact on patients and staff is the creation of a new protocol for collecting race and ethnicity data in the patient management computer. The department is also in the process of developing departmental mandatories including a cultural self-assessment.
"We believe that as a department we have increased our awareness and understanding of our diverse patient population. Our department has learned that with respect and compassion comes an increase in understanding of each other which increases self-worth, trust, and integrity." |
