Simulation for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Emergency Medicine Residency Training: A Qualitative Study

Background: The last few years have seen an increased focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives across organizations. Simulation has been used in varying degrees for teaching about DEI topics with emergency medicine; however, there are no established best practices or guidelines on this subject. To further examine the use of simulation for DEI teachings, the DEISIM work group was created as a collaboration between the Society of Academic Emergency Medicine (SAEM) Simulation Academy and the Academy for Diversity and Inclusion in Emergency Medicine (ADIEM). This study represents their findings.

Method: This qualitative study was conducted using a three-pronged approach. Initial literature search was conducted followed by a call for submission of simulation curricula. These were then followed by five focus groups. Focus groups were recorded, transcribed by a professional transcription service, and then subjected to thematic analysis.

Results: Data were analyzed and organized into four broad categories including Learners, Facilitators, Organizational/Leadership, and Technical Issues. Challenges within each of these were identified, as were potential solutions. Select pertinent findings included focused faculty development, a carefully planned approach that utilized DEI content experts and the use of simulation for workplace microaggressions or discriminations.

Conclusions: There appears to be a clear role for simulation in DEI teachings. Such curricula, however, should be undertaken with careful planning and input from appropriate and representative parties. More research is needed on optimizing and standardizing simulation-based DEI curricula.