The AAFP has long been focused on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in family medicine. The creation of the Center for Diversity & Health Equity (CDHE) and the EveryONE Project initiative extended that work, offering members important resources to improve health equity. But the needs of our specialty — and the communities we serve — continue to change. The events of 2020 brought about heightened awareness of the inequities that continue to plague the country. And this demanded a change in our approach to ensure that health care works for everyone.
In January 2022, the AAFP Board of Directors approved the formation of the Commission on Diversity, Equity and Inclusiveness in Family Medicine to inform future DEI work and expand leadership opportunities for family physicians. This commission, which launches in June 2022 with 10 members, will apply diversity, equity, inclusiveness and antiracism lenses to inform and guide the Academy’s recommendations, policies and work addressing disparities in care, health and the workforce.
A 2021 survey of AAFP members assessed the AAFP’s strengths and opportunities. The Exeter Group, a health care equity consulting firm, administered the survey.
The average score on the AAFP survey was 82.50%. While the AAFP’s DEI rating from members is strong and above benchmark, we know there is always more work we can do.
Organization 1 | Organization 2 | AAFP | |
DEI Index | 72.08% | 80.17% | 82.50% |
Size | 4,000+ Members | 20,000+ Members | 100,000+ Members |
Industry | Healthcare Association | Healthcare Association | Healthcare Association |
Rather than having a distinct workstream, DEI efforts are integrated as a component across all our existing — and new — work. We'll spend time doing additional research where there are large variances and work with target groups to understand where to further DEI efforts.