Recommendations for Improving Canadian Radiology Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

Abstract

Improving equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) within Canadian radiology is critical for optimal patient care and to reduce health disparities. Although there are increasing national EDI initiatives, there is a paucity of resources available to assist radiology departments as the culture of EDI evolves and faculty and institutions are expected to incorporate EDI in their practice. We present practical recommendations for radiology departments, radiology training programs, and individual radiologists wishing or mandated to improve EDI in the workplace. Actionable strategies for creating an environment that promotes EDI, attracting and supporting diverse trainees, and for how individual radiologists can be allies are presented. These EDI strategies are imperative to provide the best patient care and to strengthen the future of Canadian radiology.

Female Authorship Trends Among Articles About Artificial Intelligence in North American Radiology Journals

“…It is important to have a physician workforce that reflects the patient population whom they serve and past research has shown that shared identities between patients and physicians improves patients' satisfaction, enhances physician-patient communication, improves compliance with medical advice and reduces health outcome disparities. 4,20,21 This is especially important in an innovative field such as AI-related diagnostic radiology, as diversity is necessary in providing the varying perspectives, knowledge, and backgrounds required for developing new ideas. 15,20 Integrating AI into radiologists' daily workflow has the potential to both reduce or widen health inequities.…”

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: Calling, Career, or Chore?

“…The radiology workforce has a documented history of issues surrounding equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). 1,2 Although radiology as a medical specialty has struggled with equitable representation since its inception, disparities among physicians are a byproduct of societal attitudes. These are not interwoven into the fabric of our discipline, and therefore, EDI should be viewed as an attainable reality rather than an elusive dream.…”

“…Despite increasing attention and support for EDI within Canadian academic radiology, there is still much more work to be done. 1,2,4 A demographically representative and culturally competent radiology workforce will not arise simply by treating EDI as a checkbox item. EDI is a commitment that often requires adaptation, correction, and redirection in light of shifting population demographics.…”

Canadian Association of Radiologists Commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Canadian Radiology

“…1 A number of recommendations to improve EDI in Canadian Radiology have been proposed at the departmental, training programme and individual radiologist levels but provincial and national organizations also play an important role. 2,3 Over the last year the Canadian Association of Radiologists (CAR), the national organization representing Canadian radiologists, has actively supported and promoted EDI initiatives.…”