Full Answer Section

• Use evidence-based practices. There is a growing body of evidence that suggests that bias can impact the quality of care that patients receive. Providers can help to avoid bias by using evidence-based practices that have been shown to be effective for all patients, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or other factors.
• Be open to feedback. If a patient tells you that you have said or done something that was biased, be open to feedback and take steps to correct the situation.

By following these strategies, providers can help to promote equitable care and avoid bias when caring for patients with chronic illnesses.

Here are some additional resources that providers can use to learn more about how to promote equitable care and avoid bias:

• The National Patient Safety Foundation’s “Ask Me 3” program teaches patients how to ask their healthcare providers about their treatment options and how to make sure that they understand their care.
• The Joint Commission’s “Speak Up” campaign encourages patients to speak up if they feel that they are not receiving the care that they deserve.
• The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality’s (AHRQ) “Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services (CLAS)” standards provide guidance on how to provide culturally and linguistically appropriate care to patients from diverse backgrounds.