New York City-based Mount Sinai Health System's Icahn School of Medicine announced the launch of its Diversity and Inclusion Hub, in which researchers will use technology and data to address social determinants of health.
The initiative, spearheaded by the health system's Office of Diversity and Inclusion, will not only serve as an incubator for innovative new ways to address healthcare disparities, but also aims to diversify the field of healthcare innovation.
The hub will offer mentorship, training and networking opportunities to students, staff, community leaders and other stakeholders who are developing innovative new ways to eliminate inequity in healthcare. Students can also participate in an accelerator program, through which they will pitch ideas concerning social determinants of health and be connected with industry partners to further develop and launch their projects.
"We need to diversify medicine and ensure diverse participation in the innovation space in order to ensure quality care for underserved communities. Equity — be it for our staff, students or patients — is vital to making our work a success," said Gary Butts, MD, dean for diversity programs, policy and community affairs. "It's our hope that this will not only be a difference-maker for the neighborhoods surrounding Mount Sinai, but that it will meaningfully and intentionally further diversify our innovation and healthcare industries."