Implicit Bias in Maternal and Reproductive Healthcare

Course overview

This course provides an overview of Implicit Bias with the knowledge and tools to recognize and address implicit bias in patient care, with a specific focus on maternity and reproductive healthcare. It explores how unconscious attitudes and stereotypes can affect medical decisions, contributing to health disparities, particularly among marginalized communities. This course highlights the importance of cultural competency, inclusive language, and self-reflection in reducing bias and improving health outcomes. Special attention is given to the impact of implicit bias on maternal health, including racial disparities in pregnancy-related complications and the role of healthcare providers in addressing these issues. Additionally, the course delves into reproductive justice, highlighting the intersections of social, economic, and political factors that influence reproductive health, particularly for Black, Indigenous, and other marginalized groups. Healthcare professionals will leave with actionable strategies for fostering an inclusive, respectful, and equitable environment for all patients, especially those from underserved communities.