Overview
Healthcare organizations throughout Massachusetts are committed to enhancing health outcomes for their communities, regardless of race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, education, neighborhood, or other social determinants of health. As a result, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) have become essential strategic priorities, necessitating collaboration to advance equitable access and care.
The ACHE of MA DEI Torchbearer Award recognizes a Massachusetts healthcare organization that exemplifies the vital role of diversity in enhancing healthcare delivery. By celebrating the achievements of the DEI Torchbearer recipient, this award also offers insights into best practices and innovative strategies for addressing health disparities and overcoming challenges.
Launched in 2018 and renamed in 2023, the annual DEI Torchbearer award aims to evaluate and showcase the efforts of Massachusetts healthcare organizations that are making strides in DEI outcomes both internally and externally. ACHE members across the state are encouraged to nominate organizations that demonstrate their commitment to DEI through effective strategies and implementation of key criteria. Please note that achieving success in all areas is not required for consideration. Nominations are due by 11:59 PM on November 8, 2024, and should be sent to info@massache.org.
CRITERIA
Collection and use of diversity data (e.g., race, religion, gender, nation of origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, language preference)
Cultural competency training
Diversity in governance and leadership
Improving and strengthening community partnerships
Inclusive health/wellness resources
Incorporation of DEI into other business areas (e.g., supplier diversity, investment portfolio etc.)
AWARD FOCUS
Collection and use of DEI data: Examples include race, religion, gender, nation of origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, language preference, etc. Please describe the strategy your organization is taking to collect and utilize your DEI data. What measures of success can you highlight thus far?
Increasing cultural competence: We are interested in internal as well as external related initiatives to increase cultural competencies. In your journey, what have been the key lessons learned, and what creative strategies did you use to make your training(s) most effective?
Increasing diversity in governance and leadership: What is the current status of the diversity of your organization’s governance and leadership? What steps has your organization taken to augment the make-up of your board/governance and leadership team? What is your long-term plan to sustain diversity for your board/governance and leadership team?
Communication and community partnerships: What forms of communication does your organization use in outreach to the community? In what ways has your organization improved and strengthened partnerships with diverse communities? Please explain and provide examples and/or metrics.
Resources that accommodate DEI: Does your organization provide its staff with a range of resources at both the individual level as well as an organizational level? We are particularly interested in the following:
- Does your organization provide staff with any resilience resources? These can include access to mental health support programs, oral health services, vision/hearing screening and/or services related to social determinants of health.
- How have you evolved your resources from an organizational standpoint to accommodate your staff? Are the resources you provide your employees with, in multiple modes/language? Do you provide your staff with flexible scheduling opportunities, telecommuting options, etc.?
Incorporation of DEI lens across the business: Please describe how your organization incorporates a DEI focus throughout your business. How is your organization innovating in this area? What measures of success can you highlight? Please include any other information that would distinguish your organization’s commitment to DEI.