Embedding diversity, inclusion and equity in digital health education and research
Recent developments in the behavioural and social sciences emphasize the importance of centring diversity and inclusion (D&I) to ensure equity in digital health education, research, and practice. However, there remains a gap in tools designed to support critical reflexivity and assist educators and researchers in integrating D&I perspectives and practices into digital health initiatives. Without proper attention to D&I, there is a risk of exacerbating existing health disparities. For instance, a lack of racial diversity in the development of AI health algorithms can introduce biases, leading to preferential treatment for certain groups.
To address this, a collaborative effort between consumers, The Centre for Health Equity (CHE), and The Centre for Digital Transformation of Health (CDTH) aims to assess and support D&I needs within MDHS’s digital health education and research. By doing so, we will foster equitable care and ensure that diverse perspectives are embedded in digital health practices.
This initiative seeks to advance the field through high-quality evidence, establishing strong collaborations between consumers, CHE, and CDTH to guide the University in prioritising D&I. Key objectives of this collaboration include:
- Publishing an MDHS-wide survey on D&I for digital health
- Publishing a scoping review of D&I tools and approaches (protocol published)
- Co-developing resources, in collaboration with consumers and the community, for use by educators, students, and researchers
- Dr Kara Burns (KB), Digital Health Program Manager, CDTH
- Professor Richard Chenhall (RC), Director, Centre for Health Equity (CHE), Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne
- Dr Bronwen Merner (BM), Research Fellow, CHE and Centre for Health Policy, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne
- Ms Leslie Arnott (LA), Consumer Engagement Manager, CDTH
- Dr Belinda Davey (BD), Research Fellow, Workforce Development and Education, CDTH
- Dr Maya Panisset (MP), Senior Research Fellow, Department of Medicine – Royal Melbourne Hospital,
- Ms Carrie Van Rensburg (CVR), Research Assistant, CDTH and CHE
- Ms Cecily Gilbert (CG), Research Specialist in Digital Health Information, CDTH
- Professor Wendy Chapman (WC), Director, CDTH