Centering equity in a longitudinal health systems science curricula

Abstract

What was the educational challenge? Health inequity impedes care at every level of the health care system. Despite this, health equity is not the foundation for most health systems science (HSS) curricula. What was the solution? We reframed our HSS curricula to focus on health equity. How was the solution implemented? We integrated equity concepts into all HSS content areas. First-year content emphasizes structural competency and is delivered through didactics, discussions, interprofessional education, panels, and service-learning requirements. Second-year content applies HSS principles in the clinical space through direct patient care and assignments. Third- and fourth-year content focuses on HSS advocacy and leadership. What lessons were learned that are relevant to a wider global audience? It is crucial to center health equity in medical curricula to improve patient outcomes. Proper faculty development, non-judgmental discussions, and integration with clinical and medical sciences are critical to successful implementation. What are the next steps? We will address feedback, emphasize relevance to patients and populations, and refine outcome measures.