Empowering Equity in the Emergency Department: UConn Health’s Grassroots Initiative
In an inspiring move to reform patient care for marginalized groups, two clinicians at UConn’s John Dempsey Hospital are leading a series of grassroots efforts focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion within the Emergency Department (ED). Dr. Danielle Mailloux, an assistant professor of Emergency Medicine, and Heather Kurtzman, a physician assistant, have taken the initiative to create profound, equity-driven changes in emergency medical care.
A Proactive Approach to Women’s Health
Recognizing gaps in care for sexual assault survivors, Mailloux and Kurtzman initiated comprehensive changes centered on women’s health. They provided specialized training and secured essential equipment, including OB/GYN exam beds, and expanded emergency contraception options. “The old setup was inadequate,” explains Kurtzman. “Now, we can assure the dignity and quality of care that our patients deserve.”
Their commitment is evident in the educational initiatives they’ve organized, including workshops led by forensic nurse examiners, ensuring all ED Physician Assistants and board-certified emergency physicians are well-equipped to handle sensitive situations with care and competence.
Enhancing Communication for Deaf and Non-English Speaking Patients
Conscious of the communication barriers faced by Deaf patients, Mailloux and Kurtzman improved interpreter availability, creating a more reliable and responsive system. They’ve also introduced multilingual visual cue cards, enabling more effective communication between patients and healthcare providers while awaiting interpreter services. “This workflow respects our patients and interpreter colleagues, enhancing the overall experience,” says Mailloux.
Supporting the LGBTQ+ Community with Visibility and Understanding
Mailloux and Kurtzman’s initiatives extend to the LGBTQ+ community as well. By educating staff on patient perspectives through panel discussions, distributing rainbow badge tags, and implementing pronoun stickers, they’ve fostered an environment of inclusivity. “These symbols mean the world to patients who often feel invisible in medical settings,” Kurtzman highlights.
Small Changes with Significant Impact
Their dedication to equity is also expressed through small changes with big impacts. New bandage options represent diverse skin tones, comfort kits have been prepared for sexual assault survivors, and QR codes have been implemented for discreet access to resources on addiction, human trafficking, and domestic violence.
A Movement Gaining Momentum
What began as a passionate project is quickly gaining traction within the broader UConn Health community. Through educational sessions and community outreach, such as a winter donation drive, they’ve garnered widespread participation and support. “This work has ignited a fire in us to continue making meaningful changes,” says Mailloux.
Evaluating Systemic Biases
The clinicians are also examining potential biases regarding patient allocation to hallway beds. Their research seeks to uncover any systemic discrepancies in placement decisions, ensuring that all aspects of care are fair and equitable. “We need to confirm that decisions are rooted in fairness and medical urgency, not assumption,” explains Kurtzman.
The Local Impact and Future Implications
Mailloux and Kurtzman’s efforts exemplify meaningful community impact. By focusing on inclusivity within healthcare, they’ve not only improved patient satisfaction but also positioned UConn Health as a leader in equitable care practices. Their work sets a precedent within the healthcare system, catalyzing broader discussions and actions focused on delivering universally compassionate care.
The story of these two change agents underlines a vital lesson: informed, compassionate leadership can facilitate significant transformations, not only within healthcare systems but throughout entire communities. As their initiatives continue to evolve, they offer hope and inspire similar efforts in healthcare facilities nationwide.
UConn Health’s efforts are a testament to what dedicated individuals can achieve when committed to equity and compassion. For further information or to participate in upcoming educational sessions, interested individuals can contact UConn Health directly or visit their website for more resources and updates.
In a world striving for inclusivity, the Emergency Department at UConn’s John Dempsey Hospital stands out as a beacon of progressive change and commitment to equitable treatment for all.
