Leading the Way in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Children’s View: The pandemic has highlighted the healthcare disparities people from underrepresented communities face. What is CHOP doing to address this?

Gilbert Davis: Our new Center for Health Equity, under Dr. Tyra Bryant-Stephens’ leadership, brings CHOP experts together to identify disparities and develop strategies to eliminate them. The center’s team works with community partners to address public health concerns, including housing, employment and education. We are committed to finding creative ways to ensure that every child has a chance at a healthy future.

CV: Why is it important to focus on DEI issues?

GD: The size and scope of CHOP’s community mean that we can make a meaningful difference for thousands of people every day. That brings with it a tremendous responsibility: to create an environment that reflects the diversity of our patient population and make sure everyone feels welcome at CHOP. Diversity fuels innovation, and when patients are cared for by providers who share their background, they feel more comfortable — and have better outcomes.

CV: What is your approach to DEI?

GD: Inclusion at CHOP means creating an environment where employees can bring their whole selves to work; integrating diversity efforts into research so our innovations benefit the most patients possible; and keeping the needs and values of our patients and families in mind as we develop policies, practices and processes. One of my highest priorities is ensuring our workforce is as diverse as the families we serve. I’m also working to create a more inclusive culture at CHOP and bring together groups of employees who share interests and experiences through Employee Resource and Physician Affinity Groups. We want everyone who walks through our doors to feel like their voices are heard.