Publication Date
4-1-2025
Journal
Journal of the American College of Emergency Physicians Open
DOI
10.1016/j.acepjo.2025.100060
PMID
40034199
PMCID
PMC11874557
PubMedCentral® Posted Date
2-14-2025
PubMedCentral® Full Text Version
Post-print
Published Open-Access
yes
Keywords
diversity, equity, inclusion, emergency medicine
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) leadership roles have grown in academic emergency medicine (EM). We sought to elucidate specific pathways to DEI leadership roles among current DEI leaders in academic EM.
METHODS: From March to May 2023, we conducted semistructured, qualitative interviews with DEI leaders in academic EM across 5 US regions to investigate their pathways to leadership. Participants were recruited via email using Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-accredited EM residency websites and the Academy for Diversity and Inclusion in EM. After recording and transcribing the interviews, we used an inductive approach to identify major themes.
RESULTS: Of 56 DEI leaders contacted, 25 agreed to participate, and 21 were interviewed. The median (range) interview duration was 34 (25-63) minutes. Leadership titles included directors, chairs, vice chairs, committee chairs, chiefs, advisors, and deans. Three major themes emerged: (1) nonlinear pathways-participants reached DEI roles through informal assumption, volunteering, or self-creation, often without initial aspiration or compensation; (2) undefined roles and expectations-roles and responsibilities were often determined by leaders themselves, with advantages and disadvantages; (3) variable perceived value in promotions-participants felt DEI efforts were frequently undervalued in academic promotion, with mentorship highlighted as crucial for translating DEI activities into academic achievements.
CONCLUSION: Our study provides important insights not only into the pathways to DEI leadership among current leaders in academic EM but also into the challenges and opportunities DEI leaders perceive when navigating roles, responsibilities, and academic promotion.
Included in
Critical Care Commons, Emergency Medicine Commons, Medical Sciences Commons, Medicine and Health Commons, Pediatrics Commons, Race and Ethnicity Commons, Social Justice Commons
