Uncovering the Policy Landscape of Workforce in Minoritized Communities

Presenter

Iris Tal Weinstock

Campus

UMass Amherst

Sponsor

Ellen Correa, Department of Civic Engagement & Service-Learning, UMass Amherst

Schedule

Session 5, 3:30 PM - 4:15 PM [Schedule by Time][Poster Grid for Time/Location]

Location

Poster Board C17, Poster Showcase Room (163), Row 2 (C11-C20) [Poster Location Map]

Abstract

The healthcare industry has been facing major challenges related to workforce shortages and disparities in representation among healthcare professions, resulting in increased strain on healthcare systems and decreased access to care for under-resourced communities. These challenges provide a pressing need for healthcare policy analysis and improvement in training and recruitment to strengthen the workforce. This is especially the case in community health settings, where access to care may be limited and disparities in health outcomes are often most pronounced. There is a growing recognition of the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion within the healthcare workforce to bridge disparities, improve healthcare outcomes, and ensure culturally competent care for diverse patient populations. Recent initiatives related to education within the healthcare workforce strive to address shortages in healthcare professions and under-representation. By working with a federally-qualified community health organization in western Massachusetts with a workforce and learning initiative, I will be contributing a literature review regarding the policy landscape of the workforce in community health and opportunities for addressing equity. Themes related to policy, program areas, population need, and contributing factors accessing career entry points into community health will be addressed. This valuable insight can help the organization educate the community, write grants, and refine their program to provide the best care for their patients and education for their trainees. As an aspiring healthcare professional, this project will provide me with the perspective needed to recognize disparities in patient care and enhance my ability to provide culturally competent care.

Keywords

Healthcare policy , Healthcare workforce, Diversity, equity, and inclusion

Research Area

Health Policy and Management

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