ASCP Reaffirms Support for DEI

In recent years, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives have been the subject of much debate. As a medical specialty society, ASCP is dedicated to the proposition that everyone should be treated with respect and fairness. Equality and equity—for all—are bedrock principles that we, as Americans, must embrace and strive for without exception. We expect the same for—and from—the pathology and laboratory workforce, regardless of race, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity, physical ability, socioeconomic status, etc. We believe that DEI is a moral imperative as well as an economic, legal, social, and medical imperative.

Recently, Senator John Kennedy (R-LA) and Representative Greg Murphy, MD (R-NC) introduced legislation in Congress to prohibit graduate medical schools from receiving Federal funding, including participation in Federal student loan programs, if they engage in any DEI activities and/or provide education on structural or institutional racism. DEI programs in medical schools help address the underrepresentation of certain groups in the field of medicine and lift health outcomes among underserved and marginalized populations. They also promote equity and understanding between physicians and patients and help improve patient care by reducing health care disparities.

Research has shown that DEI initiatives provide a wealth of other benefits too. Diversity spurs innovation, creativity and problem solving as well as increases employee engagement and productivity. DEI facilitates compliance with legal and ethical norms and can increase compliance with anti-discrimination, equal opportunity, and sexual harassment laws. DEI also addresses social issues as it helps create a more equitable society and promotes fairness and equal opportunities for all. Moreover, DEI can play a key role in addressing workforce shortages, like the one currently affecting the pathology and laboratory medicine workforce.

It should come as no surprise that ASCP strongly opposes Senator Kennedy and Representative Murphy’s bills and similar legislation. The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) is taking this opportunity to reaffirm our strong support for DEI initiatives. ASCP plans to stay true to our mission to provide quality care to all patients and to promote the development of a vibrant and resilient pathology and laboratory workforce. DEI initiatives will be part of how we do that.