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Healthy Diverse Populations - Diversity Competency

Diversity Competency Tools

Diversity and Alberta Health Services

Diversity Competency

Organizational Diversity Competency |  Individual Diversity Competency

Alberta Health Services recognizes that diverse populations experience health disparities which are influenced by a number of factors, including barriers to accessing health services. We also recognize that increasing diversity competence within the organization will result in a reduction of health disparities experienced by diverse populations. To successfully address the health disparities experienced by diverse populations including the impact of the determinants of health, systemic changes are required as Alberta Health Services moves forward. Diversity competence is a shared responsibility of all areas within the Region. Diversity competency is a mind set that must be adopted by every individual and every part of the health system.

The Diversity Directional Document was developed to guide the Calgary Health Region as it works to become a model diversity competent health organization. Steps are being taken to adapt this document to a provincial focus.

Definition of Diversity Competency

The Calgary Health Region defines diversity competency as the ability of individuals and systems to respond respectfully and effectively to individuals, families and communities of all diverse backgrounds in a manner that protects and preserves their dignity and recognizes, affirms, and values differences, similarities and worth.

Regional Diversity Advisory Committee,
Calgary Health Region

Guiding Principles

The principles that will guide Alberta Health Services as it strives for diversity competency are outlined below. These principles are manifested in every level of service delivery and are reflected in attitudes, knowledge, practices, structures, policies, and services. The principles are:

  • Diversity is valued.
  • An organizational culture of inclusiveness and respect.
  • Organizational capacity for diversity competency is achieved through self-assessment.
  • Diversity competent health care organizations are made up of diversity competent individuals.
  • Access to health and employment services is equitable for all diverse populations.
  • Service delivery is adaptable, is reflective of diversity and is flexible to accommodate various aspects of diversity and the evolution of the community.
  • Program and policy development, delivery, and evaluation is achieved via participatory processes, wherever possible, through the involvement of staff, volunteers, partners, and relevant external communities and organizations representing diverse populations.
  • Diversity knowledge is integrated into practice.
  • Diversity competency is a shift in awareness, understanding, and skill that is relevant to all staff.
  • Practice is evidence-based.
  • Diversity is viewed as a strength.

Diversity Vision: To become a proficient diversity competent organization that is a model for other health organizations.

 

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