Achieve EDI-Informed Results

Ivy Lynn Bourgeault, University of Ottawa & Canadian Health Workforce Network

The third A in the LEADS Framework, Achieve Results, focuses on goal-oriented leaders. The four capabilities – set direction; strategically align decisions with vision, values and evidence; take action to implement decision and assess; and evaluation – are all relevant to EDI. EDI-informed, goal-oriented leaders dedicate resources to address EDI outcomes and embed these processes within their department, division, or organization. First, leaders must establish a baseline knowledge through environmental scanning and audits of EDI data (e.g. staff, clients, and services), if they do not already exist. Next, they must consult a diverse range of interested stakeholders in high-level meetings to reach a (near to) consensus direction of EDI initiatives that are in alignment with organizational vision and values. These EDI plans must be resourced, implemented, and acted upon and supported with evidence-informed tools. One made-in-Canada EDI toolkit, developed from the Empowering Women Leaders in Health initiative, is available on the LEADS platform . Tools include EDI-aware hiring and promotion practices and EDI-supportive organizational policies, processes, and culture. Continuous monitoring, reassessment, and evaluation to track progress towards EDI goals and resetting direction for continuous improvement must be embedded in organizational processes for optimal results.