Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Alignment (IDEA)

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Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Alignment (IDEA)

Overview

Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Alignment (IDEA) is leading organizational transformation and alignment to support our vision to go well beyond medicine. We believe workforce equity is foundational to all efforts to advance and achieve health equity, which is why our associates are equal partners in this mission-critical work. Embracing our systemness, we align our DEI and health equity priorities with organizational and leadership priorities to help create the healthiest generations of children. 

Purpose Statement

To create an environment of inclusive excellence valuing all associates and empowering them to address health equity and associate diversity, equity and inclusion to create the healthiest generations of children.

Resources

ON THIS PAGE:

Rachel J. Thornton, MD, PhD

Vice President, and Chief Health Equity Officer

Rachel J. Thornton, MD, PhD is Vice President and Chief Health Equity Officer at Nemours Children’s Health, where she leads work on health equity strategy to support our vision to create the healthiest generations of children. Dr. Thornton has committed her career to health equity research and practice, including organizational transformation.

Portriat of Rachel J. Thornton, MD, PhD

Prior to joining Nemours Children’s, Dr. Thornton was Associate Professor of Pediatrics at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and the Inaugural Executive Director for Clinical Services in the Johns Hopkins Medicine Office of Population Health, where she led population health management services and community health. A practicing primary care pediatrician, Dr. Thornton served as a Health Policy advisor at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development from 2011–2013. As a nationally recognized innovator in health equity research and practice, she served as a member of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine study committee on Shaping Summertime Experiences, Opportunities to Promote Healthy Development and Well-Being for Children and Youth, and as a member of the Strategy Group on COVID-19 and Rental Evictions.

 

Dr. Thornton received a Bachelor of Arts from New York University, a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, and a PhD in Health Policy and Management from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. After residency, she completed fellowship training in general academic pediatrics.

Young female patient listens to female doctor in a lab coat

Associate Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

We believe that achieving health equity begins with associate diversity, equity and inclusion. A culturally safe environment inspires inclusive innovation and excellence reflected in the quality of care we provide for the children, families and our communities. 

By embracing, celebrating, and cultivating an inclusive environment for associate diversity, we aspire to contribute to the healthier generations of children. 

The strength of a diverse and inclusive work environment creates more satisfied associates with a stronger sense of community and mission.

Diversity & Inclusion Education

We identify evidence-based, cutting-edge learning experiences to equip associates with the skills to navigate, leverage and elevate cultural differences. On demand or by special request, our learning content responds to the cultural realities of our organization and provides tools to apply in the workplace.  

Diversity Calendar

The Diversity Calendar is a catalog of diverse holidays, observances and special celebrations. It contains a brief description of their significance, traditional customs, forms of celebration and observance, and it’s accompanied by evidence-based guidance and recommendations to expand knowledge, spark cultural curiosity and respectfully participate in diverse customs, while honoring our cultural identity. Exploring diverse cultural traditions can be enjoyable and rewarding, and is essential to expand our cultural awareness and sensitivity. Recognizing, appreciating and respecting diverse cultural expressions contributes to a safer and more inclusive work environment, where we can find similarities among differences and thrive together. 

Associate Resource Groups (ARGs)

ARGs are voluntary, peer-led groups that bring associates together who share common cultural identities, experiences and backgrounds, and/or are allies of a particular group. ARGs are open to all, regardless of cultural or ethnic background and life experiences. ARGs are safe spaces dedicated to creating a sense of community and belonging among associates, in alignment with our mission and values. 

These groups emphasize appreciation and validation of identity and alliances regardless of gender, ethnicity, veteran status, religious affiliation, socioeconomic background, mental and physical ability. ARGs raise awareness of relevant issues impacting our communities and informing responses, through:

  • Fellowship, sense of mission and enjoyment among colleagues
  • Leadership development (ARG Leads)
  • Driving associate diversity and inclusion
  • Advancing career and professional development
  • Impacting organizational advancement

Adelante (Latino/Hispanic)

THE MISSION: to create a diverse and culturally competent environment where all associates feel they have a voice, and where the Latino/Hispanic families we serve feel their needs are being met.

African Heritage

THE MISSION: to impact and enhance optimal patient care services and associate relationships by providing an inclusive experience and valued understanding from a diverse cultural perspective.

DESIaN (South Asian)

THE MISSION: bring together associates who identify their ethnicity from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Maldives and other countries in the region. We will discuss, collaborate and improve unique patient care needs of that origin, help with professional development of associates, provide mentoring to medical students/nursing students and other younger generations who aspire to be in the medical field, improve community engagement and last, but not the least, have fun while at Nemours.

Healthcare Alliance of Asian and Pacific Islanders (HAAPI)

THE MISSION: to provide a safe environment for AAPI and allies for networking, career development and addressing challenges and needs through local events, education and outreach activities.

Pride

THE MISSION: To honor, support and celebrate our LGBTQ+ associates, improve patient care for this group of patients and to have fun.

Women@Work

THE MISSION: To increase the pathways to leadership, provide professional development, and engage in networking and community engagement.

Email us to learn more.

Helping Kids Embrace Diversity

Learn how you can help your child recognize and deal with biases at home, at school and elsewhere.

Anti-Racism Statement

Nemours is committed to cultivating a strong foundation of inclusive excellence and cultural proficiency.

Little girl at medical appointment.

Reducing Health Care Disparities

Health care disparities are meaningful and unjust differences in health outcomes across patient groups. These include limited access to care, lower quality of care and worse clinical outcomes. We know that we must eliminate health care disparities and work to provide every child with what they need to achieve their full potential. This is a critical component of our Equity Roadmap, which supports achieving our Health, Value and Equity Strategic Pillar.

We have a plan to reduce health care disparities.

In 2021, we launched our Next Frontier Strategy. Our bold vision: To create the healthiest generations of children. Delivering the highest quality medical care will take us far. But exceptional care alone isn’t enough to achieve our goals. To truly transform children’s health, we must also achieve health equity. In 2023, we're holding ourselves accountable by asking the question: Are we doing everything we can to identify and eliminate health care disparities that impact our patients and communities? Our Equity Roadmap provides the plan to accomplish this objective.

To achieve equitable health care delivery, we are:

  1. Producing transparent baseline performance data across clinical and operational areas
  2. Realigning quality, safety and patient experience metrics under standard stratified sociodemographic categories, such as race, ethnicity and language (REaL)
  3. Implementing data-informed action plans, including improvement measurements, for identified disparities
  4. Reducing health care disparities in coordination with The Joint Commission requirements

Race, Ethnicity and Language (REaL) Data Reporting Initiative

To ensure we're identifying the disparities we can impact, it's important we improve how we collect, categorize and report data related to patients’ race, ethnicity and preferred health care language. By taking a system approach, this initiative will provide us with the ability to compare access, quality and outcomes across populations, geographies and clinical areas. We have a responsibility to deliver equitable health care to the patients we serve, and we have tremendous potential to act as a force-multiplier for health equity and improve health outcomes for all. 

Current Projects

Publications

Updated as of March 2021

1. Holmes, L., Jr.; Enwere, M.; Williams, J.; Ogundele, B.; Chavan, P.; Piccoli, T.; Chinacherem, C.; Comeaux, C.; Pelaez, L.; Okundaye, O.; Stalnaker, L.; Kalle, F.; Deepika, K.; Philipcien, G.; Poleon, M.; Ogungbade, G.; Elmi, H.; John, V.; Dabney, K.W. (2020) Black-White Risk Differentials in COVID-19 Transmission, Mortality and Case Fatality in the United States: Translational Epidemiologic Perspective and Challenge. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health; 17(12), 4322; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17124322

2. Holmes Jr., L., O’Neill, L., Elmi, H., Chinacherem, C., Comeaux, C., Pelaez, L., Dabney, K., Akinola, O. and  Enwere, M. (2020). Implication of Vaginal and Cesarean Section Delivery Method in Black–White Differentials in Infant Mortality in the United States: Linked Birth/Infant Death Records, 2007–2016. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health; 17:9, 3146; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17093146

3. Holmes Jr., L., Lim, A., Comeaux, C., Dabney, K., & Okundaye, O. (2019). DNA Methylation of Candidate Genes (ACE II, INF-γ, AGTR 1, and TLR2) in Essential Hypertension Causal Pathway: Systematic Review & Quantitative Evidence Synthesis. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health; International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health; 16:4829, doi:10.3390/ijerph16234829

4. Holmes Jr., L., Shutman, E., Chinaka, C., Elmi, H., Deepika, K., Pelaez, L., & Dabney, K. (2019). Aberrant Epigenomic Modulation of Glucocorticoid Receptor Gene (NR3C1) in Early Life Stress and Major Depressive Disorder Correlation: Systematic Review and Quantitative Evidence Synthesis. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health; ijerph-625455, Received on 10 October 2019

5. Holmes Jr., L., Chinaka, C., Elmi, H., Deepekai, K., Pelaez, L., Enwere, M., & Dabney, K. (2019). Implication of Spiritual Network Support System in Epigenomic Modulation and Health Trajectory. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health; 16, 4123; doi:10.3390/ijerph16214123

6. Mage DT, Maria Donner E, Holmes L Jr. Risk Differences in Disease-Specific Infant Mortality Between Black and White US Children, 1968-2015: an Epidemiologic InvestigationJournal of Racial Ethnic Health Disparities. 2019 Feb;6(1):86-93.

7. Gaebe, G., Kruse, R., Rogers, K., Mackenzie, W.G., & Holmes, L. Jr. Dynamic Lower Extremity Deformity in Children With PseudoachondroplasiaJournal of Pediatric Orthopedics. 2018 Mar;38(3):157-162. doi: 10.1097/BPO.0000000000000798.

8. Abousamra, O., Nishnianidze, T., Rogers, K.J., Er, M.S., Sees, J.P., Dabney, K., & Miller, F. Risk factors for pancreatitis after posterior spinal fusion in children with cerebral palsy. Journal of Pediatric Orthopic B. 2018 Mar;27(2):163-167. doi: 10.1097/BPB.0000000000000376.

9. Tan-McGrory, A., Bennett-AbuAyyash, C., Gee, S., Dabney, K., Cowden, J., Williams, L., Rafton, S., Nettles, A., Pagura, S., Holmes, L., Goleman, J., Caldwell, L., Page, J., Oceanic, P., McMullen, E., Lopera, S., Beiter, S., and López, L. A patient and family data domain collection framework for identifying disparities in pediatrics: results from the pediatric health equity collaborative. BioMed Central Pediatrics (2018) 18:18 DOI 10.1186/s12887-018-0993-2

10. Dixit, D., Theroux, M.C., Dabney, K.W., Miller, F. Use of caudal epidural catheter in a child with cerebral palsy with prior posterior spine (T1-sacrum) fusion.  Indian Journal of Anaesthesia. 2018 Jan;62(1):80-82. doi: 10.4103/ija.IJA_562_17.

11. Holmes L Jr, Morgan I, Earnest B, LaHurd A, Nettles A, Dabney K. Lower Regional Pediatric In-hospital Mortality Albeit Racial/ethnic Disparities. Journal of the National Medical Association. 2018 Dec;110(6):583-590.

12. Holmes L Jr, Chavan P, Blake T, Dabney K. Unequal Cumulative Incidence and Mortality Outcome in Childhood Brain and Central Nervous System Malignancy in the USA. Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities. 2018 Oct;5(5):1131-1141.

13. Morgan I, Hughes ME, Belcher H, Holmes L Jr. Maternal Sociodemographic Characteristics, Experiences and Health Behaviors Associated with Postpartum Care Utilization: Evidence from Maryland PRAMS Dataset, 2012-2013Maternal and Child Health Journal. 2018 Apr;22(4):589-598.

14. Church, C., Lennon, N., Pineault, K., Abousamra, O., Niiler, T., Henley, J., Dabney, K., & Miller, F. Persistence and Recurrence Following Femoral Derotational Osteotomy in Ambulatory Children With Cerebral Palsy. Journal of Pediatric Orthopedics. 2017 Oct/Nov;37(7):447-453. doi:10.1097/BPO.0000000000000701.

15. Abousamra, O., Er, M.S., Rogers, K.J., Nishnianidze, T., Dabney, K.W., & Miller, F. Hip Reconstruction in Children With Unilateral Cerebral Palsy and Hip Dysplasia. Journal of Pediatric Orthopedics. 2016 Dec;36(8):834-840.

16. Nishnianidze, T., Bayhan, I.A., Abousamra, O., Sees, J., Rogers, K.J., Dabney, K.W., & Miller F. Factors predicting postoperative complications following spinal fusions in children with cerebral palsy scoliosi. European Spine Journal. 2016 Feb;25(2):627-34. doi: 10.1007/s00586-015-4243-0. Epub 2015 Sep 26.

17. Holmes L Jr, Tworig J, Casini J, Morgan I, O'Brien K, Oceanic P, Dabney K. Implication of Socio-Demographics on Cognitive-Related Symptoms in Sports Concussion Among Children. Sports Medicine-Open. 2016 Dec;2(1):38.

18. Mostovych N, Holmes L, Ruszkay N, LaHurd A, Heinle R, Nardone H. Effectiveness of Powered Intracapsular Tonsillectomy in Children With Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Journal of the American Medical Association Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery. 2016 Feb;142(2):150-6.

19. Sees, J.P., Sitoula, P., Dabney, K., Holmes, L. Jr., Rogers, K.J., Kecskemethy, H.H., Bachrach, S., & Miller, F. Pamidronate Treatment to Prevent Reoccurring Fractures in Children With Cerebral Palsy. Journal of Pediatric Orthopedics. 2016 Mar;36(2):193-7. doi:10.1097/BPO.0000000000000421.

20. Pruszczynski, B., Saller, J., Rogers, K.J., Holmes, L. Jr., & Ty, J.M. Incidence of Carpal Coalition in the Pediatric PopulationJournal of Pediatric Orthopedics. 2016 Dec;36(8):e106-e110.

21. Sitoula, P., Holmes, L. Jr., Sees, J., Rogers, K., Dabney, K., & Miller, F. The Long-term Outcome of Early Spine Fusion for Scoliosis in Children With Cerebral Palsy. Clinical Spine Surgery. 2016 Oct;29(8):E406-12. doi: 10.1097/BSD.0000000000000184.

22. Pourtaheri, S., Shah, S.A., Ditro, C.P., Holmes, L. Jr., & Mackenzie, W.G.  Preoperative halo-gravity traction with and without thoracoscopic anterior release for skeletal dysplasia patients with severe kyphoscoliosis. Journal of Child Orthopedics. 2016 Apr;10(2):135-42. doi: 10.1007/s11832-016-0721-0. Epub 2016 Mar 26.

23. Theroux, M.C., Fisher, A.O., Rodriguez, M.E., Brislin, R.P., Reichard, K.W., Shah, S.A., McCoy, M., Brown, M., Dabney, K.W., Mackenzie, W.G., Katz, D.A., & Shaffer, T.H. Prophylactic methylprednisolone to reduce inflammation and improve outcomes from one lung ventilation in children: a randomized clinical trial. Paediatric Anaesthesia. 2015 Jun;25(6):587-94. doi: 10.1111/pan.12601. Epub 2015 Jan 2.

24. Sitoula, P., Verma, K., Holmes, L. Jr., Gabos, P.G., Sanders, J.O., Yorgova, P., Neiss, G., Rogers, K., & Shah, S.A. Prediction of Curve Progression in Idiopathic Scoliosis: Validation of the Sanders Skeletal Maturity Staging SystemSpine (Phila Pa 1976). 2015 Jul 1;40(13):1006-13. doi:10.1097/BRS.0000000000000952.

25. Dabney K, McClarin L, Romano E, Fitzgerald D, Bayne L, Oceanic P, Nettles AL, Holmes L Jr. Cultural Competence in Pediatrics: Health Care Provider Knowledge, Awareness, and SkillsInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2015 Dec 22;13(1): ijerph13010014.

26. Holmes L, Vandenberg J, McClarin L, Dabney K. Epidemiologic, Racial and Healthographic Mapping of Delaware Pediatric Cancer: 2004-2014. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2015 Dec 22;13(1):ijerph13010049.

27.  Holmes L, LaHurd A, Wasson E, McClarin L, Dabney K. Racial and Ethnic Heterogeneity in the Association Between Total Cholesterol and Pediatric Obesity. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2015 Dec 23;13(1):ijerph13010019.

28. Holmes L Jr, Kalle F, Grinstead L, Jimenez M, Murphy M, Oceanic P, Fitzgerald D, Dabney K. Health Disparities in Pediatric Asthma: Comprehensive Tertiary Care Center Experience. Journal of the National Medical Association. 2015 Mar;107(3):4-8.

29. DiCindio, S., Arai, L., McCulloch, M., Sadacharam, K., Shah, S.A., Gabos, P., Dabney, K., & Theroux, M.C. Clinical relevance of echocardiogram in patients with cerebral palsy undergoing posterior spinal fusion. Paediatric Anaesthesia. 2015 Aug;25(8):840-845. doi: 10.1111/pan.12676. Epub 2015 May 9.

30. Pourtaheri, S., Miller, F., Dabney, K., Shah, S.A., Dubowy, S., & Holmes, L. Deep Wound Infections After Pediatric Scoliosis SurgerySpine Deformity. 2015 Nov;3(6):533-540. doi: 10.1016/j.jspd.2015.04.003. Epub 2015 Oct 28.

31. Dabney, K., Jackson, S., LaHurd, A., Oceanic, P., Fitzgerald, D., Grant, K., & Holmes Jr., L. Racial-Ethnic Differences in Pediatric Higher Body Mass Index: Hospital-Based Access Explanatory ModelAnnals of Epidemiology. 2014 Sep; 24(9): 689

32. Pruszczynski, B., Harcke, H.T., Holmes, L. Jr., & Bowen, J.R. Natural history of hip instability in infants (without subluxation or dislocation): a three year follow-up. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. 2014 Oct 28;15:355. doi: 10.1186/1471-2474-15-355.

33. Shah, S.A., Karatas, A.F., Dhawale, A.A., Dede, O., Mundis, G.M. Jr, Holmes, L. Jr., Yorgova, P., Neiss, G., Johnston, C.E., Emans, J.B., Thompson, G.H., Pawelek, J.B., Akbarnia, B.A; Growing Spine Study Group.  The effect of serial growing rod lengthening on the sagittal profile and pelvic parameters in early-onset scoliosis. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2014 Oct 15;39(22):E1311-7. doi: 10.1097/BRS.0000000000000565.

34. Sitoula, P., Mackenzie, W.G., Shah, S.A., Thacker, M., Ditro, C., Holmes, L. Jr., Campbell, J.W., & Rogers, K.J. Occipitocervical fusion in skeletal dysplasia: a new surgical techniqueSpine (Phila Pa 1976). 2014 Jul 1;39(15):E912-8. doi: 10.1097/BRS.0000000000000381.

35. Kadhim, M., Thacker, M., Kadhim, A., & Holmes, L. Jr. Treatment of unicameral bone cyst: systematic review and meta analysis. Journal of Child Orthopedics. 2014 Mar;8(2):171-91. doi: 10.1007/s11832-014-0566-3. Epub 2014 Feb 26. PMID: 24570274

36. Ciccotti, M.G., Atanda, A. Jr., Nazarian, L.N., Dodson, C.C., Holmes, L., & Cohen, S.B. Stress sonography of the ulnar collateral ligament of the elbow in professional baseball pitchers: a 10-year study. American Journal of Sports Medicine. 2014 Mar;42(3):544-51. doi:10.1177/0363546513516592. Epub 2014 Jan 28.

37. Dhawale, A.A., Gjolaj, J.P., Holmes, L. Jr., Sands, L.R., Temple, H.T., & Eismont, F.J. Sacrectomy and adjuvant radiotherapy for the treatment of sacral chordomas: a single-center experience over 27 yearsSpine (Phila Pa 1976). 2014 Mar 1;39(5):E353-9. doi: 10.1097/BRS.0000000000000173.

38. Pourtaheri, S., Emami, A., Sinha, K., Faloon, M., Hwang, K., Shafa, E., & Holmes, L. Jr. The role of magnetic resonance imaging in acute cervical spine fracturesSpine Journal. 2014 Nov 1;14(11):2546-53. doi: 10.1016/j.spinee.2013.10.052. Epub 2013 Nov 22.

39. Talmac, M.A., Kadhim, M., Rogers, K.J., Holmes, L. Jr., & Miller, F. Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease in children with Down syndrome. Acta Orthopaedica et Traumatologica Turcica. 2013;47(5):334-8.

40. Dabney K, Oceanic P, Fitzgerald D, Grant K, Holmes L Jr. Do Asians Demonstrate Optimal Compliance in CDC Recommended Pediatric Vaccine Schedule? Annals of Epidemiology. 2013; 23(9): 590.

41. Boniello, A., Verma, K., Sees, J.P., Miller, F., & Dabney, K. Delayed Abdominal Compartment Syndrome as a Complication of Spinal Surgery: Literature Review and Case Report. Spine Deformity. 2013 Nov;1(6):464-467. doi: 10.1016/j.jspd.2013.07.011. Epub 2013 Nov 21.

42. Fuhrhop, S.K., Keeler, K.A., Oto, M., Miller, F., Dabney, K.W., Bridwell, K.H., Lenke, L.G., & Luhmann, S.J. Surgical Treatment of Scoliosis in Non-Ambulatory Spastic Quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy Patients: A Matched Cohort Comparison of Unit Rod Technique and All-Pedicle Screw Constructs. Spine Deformity. 2013 Sep;1(5):389-394. doi: 10.1016/j.jspd.2013.07.006. Epub 2013 Sep 25.

43. Robinson, K.G., Mendonca, J.L., Militar, J.L., Theroux, M.C., Dabney, K.W., Shah, S.A., Miller, F., & Akins, R.E. Disruption of basal lamina components in neuromotor synapses of children with spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy. PLOS One. 2013 Aug 16;8(8):e70288. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0070288. eCollection 2013.

44. Karatas, A.F., Miller, E.G., Miller, F., Dabney, K.W., Bachrach, S., Connor, J., Rogers, K., & Holmes, L. Jr. Cerebral palsy patients discovered dead during sleep: experience from a comprehensive tertiary pediatric center. Journal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine. 2013 Jan 1;6(4):225-31. doi: 10.3233/PRM-140257.

45. Holmes L Jr, Dabney K, Hossain J. Racial/Ethnic Variances in Loco-Regional Prostate Cancer (CaP) Survival: Impact of Chemotherapy. Annals of Epidemiology. 2013; 23 (9): 583–584.

46. Holmes L Jr, Hossain J, Ward D, Opara F. “Racial/Ethnic Variability in Hypertension Prevalence and Risk Factors in National Health Interview Survey,” ISRN Hypertension, vol. 2013, Article ID 257842, 8 pages, 2013.

47. Williams A, Dabney K, Holmes L Jr. Health Disparities in Colorectal Cancer Screening in United States: Race/Ethnicity or Shifting Paradigms? Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice. 2013; 6 (2): Article 8.

48. Karatas, A.F., Dede, O., Rogers, K., Ditro, C.P., Holmes, L., Bober, M., Shah, S.A., & Mackenzie, W.G. Growth-sparing spinal instrumentation in skeletal dysplasiaSpine (Phila Pa 1976). 2013 Nov 15;38(24):E1517-26. doi: 10.1097/BRS.0b013e3182a590f0.

49. Kadhim, M., Holmes, L. Jr., & Miller, F. Long-term outcome of planovalgus foot surgical correction in children with cerebral palsy. Foot Ankle Surgery. 2013 Nov-Dec;52(6):697-703. doi: 10.1053/j.jfas.2013.06.010. Epub 2013 Jul 25.

50. Dhawale, A.A., Shah, S.A., Yorgova, P., Neiss, G., Layer, D.J. Jr., Rogers, K.J., Gabos, P.G., & Holmes, L. Jr. Effectiveness of cross-linking posterior segmental instrumentation in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a 2-year follow-up comparative study. Spine Journal. 2013 Nov;13(11):1485-92. doi: 10.1016/j.spinee.2013.05.022. Epub 2013 Jun 22.

51. Shah, S.A., Dhawale, A.A., Oda, J.E., Yorgova, P., Neiss, G.I., Holmes, L. Jr., & Gabos, P.G. Ponte Osteotomies With Pedicle Screw Instrumentation in the Treatment of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis. Spine Deformity. 2013 May;1(3):196-204. doi: 10.1016/j.jspd.2013.03.002. Epub 2013 Jun 6.

52. Dhawale, A.A., Shah, S.A., Reichard, S., Holmes, L. Jr., Brislin, R., Rogers, K., & Mackenzie, W.G. Casting for infantile scoliosis: the pitfall of increased peak inspiratory pressure. Journal of Pediatric Orthopedics. 2013 Jan;33(1):63-7. doi: 10.1097/BPO.0b013e318264936f.

53. Dhawale, A.A., Church, C., Henley, J., Holmes, L. Jr., Thacker, M.M., Mackenzie, W.G., & Miller, F. Gait pattern and lower extremity alignment in children with Morquio syndrome. Journal of Pediatric Orthopedics B. 2013 Jan;22(1):59-62. doi: 10.1097/BPB.0b013e32835a0e6d.

54. Holmes L Jr, Hossain J, Opara F. Pediatric Thyroid Carcinoma Incidence and Temporal Trends in the U.S. (1973-2007): Race or Shifting Diagnostic Paradigm? ISRN Oncology. 2012.

55. Holmes L Jr, Hossain J, desVignes-Kendrick M, Opara F. Sex Variability in Pediatric Leukemia Survival: Large Cohort EvidenceISRN Oncology. 2012; Article ID 439070, 9 pages.

56. Holmes L Jr, Opara F, desVignes-Kendrick M, Hossain J. Age Variance in the Survival of United States Pediatric Leukemia Patients (1973–2006). ISRN Public Health. 2012; Article ID 721329, 10 pages.

57. Holmes L Jr, Hossain J, Ward D, Opara F. Racial/Ethnic Variability in Diabetes Mellitus Among United States Residents Is Unexplained by Lifestyle, Sociodemographics and Prognostic Factors. ISRN Public Health. 2012; Article ID 408079, 8 pages.

58. Thabet, A.M., Kowtharapu, D.N., Miller, F., Dabney, K.W., Shah, S.A., Rogers, K., & Holmes, L. Jr. Wrist fusion in patients with severe quadriplegic cerebral palsyMusculoskeletal Surgery. 2012 Dec;96(3):199-204. doi: 10.1007/s12306-012-0217-0. Epub 2012 Aug 15.

59. Holmes, L. Jr., Hossain, J., & Opara, F. Pediatric thyroid carcinoma incidence and temporal trends in the USA (1973-2007): race or shifting diagnostic paradigm? ISRN Oncology. 2012;2012:906197. doi: 10.5402/2012/906197. Epub 2012 Mar 6.

60. Kadhim, M., Holmes, L. Jr., & Miller, F.  Correlation of radiographic and pedobarograph measurements in planovalgus foot deformity. Gait Posture. 2012 Jun;36(2):177-81. doi: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2012.02.011. Epub 2012 Apr 22.

61. Oto, M., Thabet, A., Miller, F., & Holmes, L. Correlation between selective pedobarographic and radiographic measures in the assessment of surgically treated CTEV patients. Eklem Hastalik Cerrahisi. 2011 Dec;22(3):145-8.

62. Oto, M., Shah, S.A., Mohammed, M.A., Rogers, K.J., Yorgova, P., & Holmes, L. Effectiveness and safety of posterior titanium instrumentation in children with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a prospective study. Eklem Hastalik Cerrahisi. 2011 Dec;22(3):124-8.

63. Thawrani, D., Kuester, V., Gabos, P.G., Kruse, R.W., Littleton, A.G., Rogers, K.J., Holmes, L., & Thacker, M.M. Reliability and necessity of computerized tomography in distal tibial physeal injuries. Journal of Pediatric Orthopedics 2011 Oct-Nov;31(7):745-50. doi: 10.1097/BPO.0b013e31822d385f.

64. Joo, S.Y., Knowtharapu, D.N., Rogers, K.J., Holmes, L. Jr., & Miller, F. Recurrence after surgery for equinus foot deformity in children with cerebral palsy: assessment of predisposing factors for recurrence in a long-term follow-up study. Journal of Child Orthopedics. 2011 Aug;5(4):289-96. doi: 10.1007/s11832-011-0352-4. Epub 2011 Jun 24.

65. Rahman, T., Chandran, S., Kluger, D., Kersch, J., Holmes, L., Nishisaki, A., & Deutsch, E.S. Tracking manikin tracheal intubation using motion analysis. Pediatric Emergency Care. 2011 Aug;27(8):701-5. doi: 10.1097/PEC.0b013e318226c7f4.

66. Angsanuntsukh, C., Oto, M., Holmes, L., Rogers, K.J., King, M.M., Donohoe, M., & Kumar, S.J. Congenital vertical talus in multiple pterygium syndrome. Journal of Pediatric Orthopedics. 2011 Jul-Aug;31(5):564-9. doi: 10.1097/BPO.0b013e31822108d0.

67. Wee, J., Rahman, T., Akins, R.E., Seliktar, R., Levine, D.G., Richardson, D.W., Dodge, G.R., Thabet, A.M., Holmes, L., & Mackenzie, W.G. Using distraction forces to drive an autodistractor during limb lengthening. Medical Engineering & Physics. 2011 Oct;33(8):1001-7. doi: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2011.04.002. Epub 2011 Apr 30.

68. Holmes, L. Jr., Opara, F., & Hossain, J. A five-year breast cancer-specific survival disadvantage of African American women. African Journal of Reproductive Health. 2010 Sep;14(3):195-200.

69. Amin, R., Bohnert, A., Holmes, L., Rajasekaran, A., & Assanasen, C. Response to "Childhood clustering in Florida: weighing the evidence". Pediatric Blood Cancer. 2010 Jul 1;54(7):1053. doi: 10.1002/pbc.22488.

70. Essien, E.J., Monjok, E., Chen, H., Abughosh, S., Ekong, E., Peters, R.J., Holmes, L. Jr., Holstad, M.M., & Mgbere, O. Correlates of HIV knowledge and sexual risk behaviors among female military personnel. AIDS and Behavior. 2010 Dec;14(6):1401-14. doi: 10.1007/s10461-010-9701-4.

71. Palocaren, T., Thabet, A.M., Rogers, K., Holmes, L. Jr., Donohoe, M., King, M.M., & Kumar, S.J. Anterior distal femoral stapling for correcting knee flexion contracture in children with arthrogryposis--preliminary results. Journal of Pediatric Orthopedics. 2010 Mar;30(2):169-73. doi:10.1097/BPO.0b013e3181d07593.

72. Amin, R., Bohnert, A., Holmes, L., Rajasekaran, A., & Assanasen, C. Epidemiologic mapping of Florida childhood cancer clusters. Pediatric Blood Cancer. 2010 Apr;54(4):511-8. doi: 10.1002/pbc.22403.

73. Holmes, L. Jr., Chan, W., Jiang, Z., Ward, D., Essien, E.J., & Du, X.L. Impact of androgen deprivation therapy on racial/ethnic disparities in the survival of older men treated for locoregional prostate cancer. Cancer Control. 2009 Apr;16(2):176-85.

74. Holmes, L. Jr., Ogungbade, G., Ward, D.D., Ross, M.W., Ekong, E., & Essien, E.J. Epidemiologic and behavioral characterization of knowledge of condom use and modeling among military personnel. African Journal of Reproductive Health. 2008 Aug;12(2):32-44.

75. Holmes, L. Jr., Monjok, E., Ward, D., Garrison, O.M., Toney, E.D., Ogungbade, G., & Essien, E.J. Racial variance in rationale for HIV testing in community-based setting in the United States: evidence from the National Health Interview Survey Journal of the International Associations of Physicians of AIDS Care (Chic). 2008 Mar-Apr;7(2):61-8. doi: 10.1177/1545109708315327. Epub 2008 Mar 4.

76. Essien, E.J., Ogungbade, G.O., Ward, D., Ekong, E., Ross, M.W., Meshack, A., & Holmes, L. Jr. Influence of educational status and other variables on human immunodeficiency virus risk perception among military personnel: a large cohort finding. Military Medicine. 2007 Nov;172(11):1177-81.

77. Monjok, E., Essien, E.J., & Holmes, L. Jr. Female genital mutilation: potential for HIV transmission in sub-Saharan Africa and prospect for epidemiologic investigation and intervention. African Journal of Reproductive Health. 2007 Apr;11(1):33-42.

78. Essien, E.J., Ogungbade, G.O., Kamiru, H.N., Ekong, E., Ward, D., & Holmes, L. Jr. Emerging sociodemographic and lifestyle predictors of intention to use condom in human immunodeficiency virus intervention among uniformed services personnel. Military Medicine. 2006 Oct;171(10):1027-34.

Oral Presentations

Updated as of March 2021

1. Harrison, R., Oceanic, P., Pendley, J., and Frizzola, M. Nemours D.R.I.V.E-ing Change: Working Towards Equity and Inclusion. Association of Medical School Pediatric Department Chairs, Virtual, March 2021.

2. Thoby, E., Xiao, W., Mallarino, A., Gao, Z., Williams, N., Dabney, K. and Pelaez, L. Health Care Utilization Among Pediatric Patients Utilizing A Novel Social Determinants of Health Screener. Pediatric Academic Societies, Virtual, April, 2021.

3. Pelaez, L. and Holmes Jr., L. (March 2020). Implication of Spiritual Network Support System in Epigenomic Modulation and Health Trajectory. Wound Care, Nursing and Tissue Science Conference: Speaker Invitations, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

4. Pelaez, L. and Holmes Jr., L. (May 2020). Healthcare and Hospital Management. International Conferences on Healthcare and Hospital Management: Speaker Invitations, Vancouver, Canada.

5. Pelaez, L. and Holmes Jr., L. (June 2020). Implication of Spiritual Network Support System in Epigenomic Modulation and Health Trajectory. Global Experts Meeting on Frontiers in Patient Safety and Healthcare: Speaker Invitation, Zurich, Switzerland.

6. Holmes Jr., L. (August 2020). Strengthen Research Cooperation between the East and the West. PCS 2nd International Pediatrics Conference-2020 (IPC-2020): Oral Presentation Invitation, Tallinn, Estonia.

7.  Holmes Jr., L. (November 2019). Asian Americans Demonstrate HPV Vaccine Hesitancy in CDC Recommended Vaccine Schedule in a Comprehensive Pediatric Center, Delaware 2018. World Congress of the World Society for Pediatric Infectious Diseases: Oral Presentation, Manila, Philippines.

8. Holmes Jr., L. (November 2019). Implication of Gut Microbiome in Obesity, Type II Diabetes, and Cardiovascular Disease: Systematic Review and Quantitative Evidence Synthesis. World Congress of the World Society for Pediatric Infectious Diseases: Oral Presentation, Manila, Philippines.

9. Holmes Jr., L. (November 2019). Secretory IGA as Exposure Function of Exclusive Breast-Feeding in Intellectual Disabilities among United States Children. World Congress of the World Society for Pediatric Infectious Diseases: Oral Presentation, Manila, Philippines.

10. Horden, S., Williams, J., Dabney, K., Atanda, A., and Holmes, L. Jr. (November 2019). Conjoint Effect of Social Determinants of Health and Injury Severity Score Predicts Survival Disadvantage of Black Children with Trauma. American Public Health Association: Oral Presentation, Philadelphia.

11. Eaton, A., Masire, P., Pelaez, L., Dabney, K., Holmes Jr., L. (October 2019). Conjoint Effect of Race and Urbanicity in Childhood Renal Cell Carcinoma Survival. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) National Conference & Exhibition: Oral Presentation Invitation, New Orleans.

12. Herring, K., Masire, P., Chinaka, C., Holmes Jr., L., and Dabney K. (October 2019). T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) immunophenotype predicts the survival disadvantage of black children with ALL. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) National Conference & Exhibition: Oral Presentation Invitation, New Orleans.

13. Enwere, M. & Holmes Jr., L. (November 2019). Maternal subpopulation variances in vaginal and cesarean section delivery method explains excess infant mortality of blacks in United States: Linked Birth/Infant Death Records, 2007-2016. American Public Health Association: Oral Presentation Invitation, Philadelphia.

14. Dabney, K. (June 2019). Equity and Social Justice Lecture. Harvard Medical School: Oral Presentation, Boston.

15. Holmes Jr., L. (January 2019). Transforming Research to Scientific Posters. Delaware Technical Community College: Oral Presentation, Wilmington, Del.

16. Holmes Jr., L. (October 2019). Science Fair Project Selection and Presentation. Delaware Technical Community College: Oral Presentation, Wilmington, Del.

17. Holmes Jr., L. (October 2019). Future Medical Professionals of America. MOT Charter High School: Oral Presentation, Middletown, Del.

18. Environment-Anthropomorphic Interaction and Racial Disparities in Pediatric Asthma: Decomposition Analysis Using National Survey of Children's Health. (October, 2015). American Public Health Association: Oral Presentation, Chicago.

19. Racial variance in association between violence, social hardship, social disadvantage and asthma severity: Multivariable analysis using  the National Children Health Survey, 2012. (October, 2015). American Public Health Association: Oral Presentation, Chicago.

20. Lower Regional Pediatric In-hospital Mortality Albeit Racial/ethnic Disparities. (September, 2014). American College of Epidemiology Annual Conferences: Oral Presentation, Silver Spring, Md.

21. Lower Regional Pediatric In-hospital Mortality Albeit Racial/ethnic Disparities. (November, 2014). American Public Health Association: Oral Presentation, New Orleans.

22. Association between neck circumference and asthma severity: Can racial/ethnic variability be explained? (November, 2014). American Public Health Association: Oral Presentation, New Orleans.

23. Environment-Anthropomorphic Interaction and Racial Disparities in Pediatric Asthma: Decomposition Analysis Using National Survey of Children's Health. (November, 2014). American Public Health Association: Oral Presentation, New Orleans.

24. Conceptual Framework of Cultural Competent Care for Pediatric Asthma. (October, 2013). Pediatric Allergy & Asthma Meeting: Oral Presentation, Athens, Greece.

25. Pediatric Asthma Proportionate Morbidity: Racial/Ethnic Variance. (October, 2013). Pediatric Allergy & Asthma Meeting: Oral Presentation, Athens, Greece.

Poster Presentations

1. Harrison, R., Oceanic, P., Pendley, J., and Frizzola, M. Nemours D.R.I.V.E-ing Change: Working towards Equity and Inclusion. Association of Medical School Pediatric Department Chairs, Virtual, March 2021

2. Thoby, E. and Pelaez, L. (April 2021). Health Care Utilization Among Pediatric Patients Utilizing A Novel Social Determinants of Health Screener. Pediatric Academic Societies Virtual Meeting: Poster Presentation.

3. Holmes Jr., L., Parson, K., Masire, P., Herring, K., & Dabney, K. (October 2020). Conjoint effect of urbanity and tumor immunophenotype in survival disadvantage of males and blacks with pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia. American Public Health Association Virtual Conference: Poster Invitation

4. Holmes Jr., L., Elmi, H., Hwang, M., Pelaez, L., & Dabney, K. (October 2020). Racial/ethnic heterogeneity in the correlation between parental substance use disorder and childhood mental and behavioral dysfunction. American Public Health Association Virtual Conference: Poster Invitation

5. Holmes Jr., L., Chinaka, C., King, S., Pelaez, L., & Dabney, K. (October 2020). Exclusive breastfeeding predicts racial/ ethnic heterogeneity in childhood dental disorders in the United States. American Public Health Association Virtual Conference: Poster Invitation

6. Holmes Jr, L., Pelaez, L., Piccoli, T.V., Gardner, S., & Dabney, K. (October 2020). Diabetes  predicts dental disorders among children in the United States: Evidence from national survey of children’s health, 2016. American Public Health Association Virtual Conference: Poster Invitation

7. Elmi, H., Piccoli, T., Siddiquea, M., Miller, E.B.P., Cronan, K., Oceanic, P., Dabney, K., Brennan, R., and Holmes Jr., L.  (October 2020). Health illiteracy inversely correlates with general health and quality of life in pediatric population. American Public Health Association Virtual Conference: Poster Invitation

8. Brennan, R., Pelaez, L., and Holmes Jr., L. (October 2020). Implication of neighborhood violence in childhood obesity epidemic in the United States: National survey of children health, 2016/2017. American Public Health Association Virtual Conference: Poster Invitation

9.  Holmes Jr., L., Chinaka, C., Jones, J., Pelaez, L., & Dabney, K. (March 2020).  Black-White Unequal Cancer Cumulative Incidence and Survival among Infants in the United States: Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (1975-2016); 13th Health Disparities Conference: Invited Poster Presentation, New Orleans.

10. Holmes Jr., L., Elmi, H., Hwang, M., Pelaez, L., & Dabney, K. (March 2020). Racial Variances in the Association between Parental/Caregiver Substance Abuse and Child Mental and Behavioral Dysfunction: National Survey of Children’s Health, 2016-2017; 13th Health Disparities Conference: Invited Poster Presentation, New Orleans.

11. Holmes Jr., L., Comeaux, C., Casey, L., Pelaez, L, & Dabney, K. (March 2020). Pediatric Cancer Temporal Trends and Persistent Survival Disadvantages in the United States by Race/Ethnicity and Sex: Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (1975-2016); 13th Health Disparities Conference: Invited Poster Presentation, New Orleans.

12. Okundaye, O., Lim, A.C., Dabney, K., and Holmes Jr., L. (November 2019). DNA Methylation of Candidate Genes (ACE II, INF-γ, AGTR 1, and TLR2) in Essential Hypertension Causation: Systematic Review & Quantitative Evidence Synthesis. American Public Health Association: Poster Presentation, Philadelphia.

13. Enwere, M. & Holmes Jr., L. (November 2019). Maternal subpopulation variances in vaginal and cesarean section delivery method explains excess infant mortality of blacks in United States: Linked Birth/Infant Death Records, 2007-2016. American Public Health Association: Poster Presentation, Philadelphia.

14. Holmes Jr., L., Wasson, E., Pelaez, L., Dabney, K., and Nardone, H. (October 2019). Racial Heterogeneity in BMI Prediction of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome in Children. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) National Conference & Exhibition: Poster Presentation, New Orleans.

15. Eaton, A., Masire, P., Pelaez, L., Dabney, K., Holmes Jr., L. (October 2019). Conjoint Effect of Race and Urbanicity in Childhood Renal Cell Carcinoma Survival. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) National Conference & Exhibition: Poster Presentation, New Orleans.

16. Enwere, M., Morgan, I., Pelaez, L., and Holmes Jr., L. (October 2019). Exclusive Breastfeeding and Early Childhood Dental Disorders in United States. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) National Conference & Exhibition: Poster Presentation, New Orleans.

17. Akinola, T., Okundaye, O., Neibert, A., and Holmes, L. (October 2019). Clinico-epidemiologic Characterization of Pediatric Opioid and Opioid-Related Overdose, Delaware 2010-2017. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) National Conference & Exhibition: Poster Presentation, New Orleans.

18. Chinaka, C., Herring, K., Masire, P., Holmes Jr., L., and Dabney K. (October 2019). T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) immunophenotype predicts the survival disadvantage of black children with ALL. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) National Conference & Exhibition: Poster Presentation, New Orleans.

19. Elmi, H., Piccoli, T., Siddiquea, M., Miller, E.B.P., Cronan, K., Oceanic, P., Dabney, K., and Holmes Jr., L. (October 2019). Health Illiteracy Inversely Correlates with General Health and Quality of Life in Pediatrics. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) National Conference & Exhibition: Poster Presentation, New Orleans.

20. Comeaux, C., Thompson C., John V., Wallace A., Oceanic P, Datto G., Phan T., Dabney K., and Holmes Jr. L. (October 2019). Social Determinants and Geo-epidemiologic Mapping of Children and Family Food Insecurity. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) National Conference & Exhibition: Poster Presentation, New Orleans.

21. Social Determinants in Childhood Brain/CNS Cancer Incidence and Mortality: Analysis using SEER Data. (October, 2017). Research Centers in Minority Institutions Conference: Poster Presentation, Washington, D.C.

22. Pediatric Cancer Incidence and Temporal Trends in the United States by Health Disparities Indicators. (October, 2017). Research Centers in Minority Institutions Conference: Poster Presentation, Washington, D.C.

23. Racial and Ethnic Heterogeneity in Childhood Food Insecurity in Delaware and its Association with General Health. (October, 2017). Research Centers in Minority Institutions Conference: Poster Presentation, Washington, D.C.

24. Childhood Behavioral and Mental Health: Implications of Environmental and Social Factors. (October, 2017). Research Centers in Minority Institutions Conference: Poster Presentation, Washington, D.C.

25. Racial Differences in Cerebral Palsy and Co-Morbidities in Children: Evidence form the National Survey of Children’s Health. (October, 2017). Research Centers in Minority Institutions Conference: Poster Presentation, Washington, D.C.

26. Health Disparities Markers of Pediatric Second Primary Thyroid Cancer: Epidemiologic Characteristics & Radiation Implication. (October, 2017). Research Centers in Minority Institutions Conference: Poster Presentation, Washington, D.C.

27. Socio-Demographics and Temporal Trends in Second Primary Malignancies in Children: Large Cohort Using SEER Dataset. (October, 2017). Research Centers in Minority Institutions Conference: Poster Presentation, Washington, D.C.

28. Racial and Ethnic Heterogeneity in the Association between Total Cholesterol and Pediatric Obesity. (September, 2015). American College of Epidemiology: Poster Presentation, Atlanta.

29. Racial/ethnic variances in the relationship between autism, epilepsy and autism-epilepsy co-occurrence: National Children Health Survey, 2012. (October, 2015). American Public Health Association: Poster Presentation, Chicago.

30. Systematic Review and QES on the association between low birth weight (preterm) and cerebral palsy. (November, 2015). Prematurity Prevention Conference: Poster Presentation, Washington, D.C.

31. Racial-Ethnic Differences in Pediatric Higher Body Mass Index: Hospital-Based Access Explanatory Model. (December, 2014). Minority Health & Health Disparities Conference: Poster Presentation, Washington, D.C.

32. Serum Lipid as Bio-indicator of Racial/Ethnic Variance in Higher BMI. (December, 2014). Minority Health & Health Disparities Conference: Poster Presentation, Washington, D.C.

33. Serum Lipid as Bio-indicator of Racial/Ethnic Variance in Higher BMI. (November, 2014). American Public Health Association: Poster Presentation, New Orleans.

34. Influence of Cultural Competency Training (CCT) on providers knowledge and skills in equity care. (December, 2014). Minority Health & Health Disparities Conference: Poster Presentation, Washington, D.C.

35. Asians Demonstrate Optimal Compliance in CDC Recommended Pediatric Vaccine Schedule? (September, 2013). American College of Epidemiology: Poster Presentation, Louisville, Ky.

36. Asians Demonstrate Optimal Compliance in CDC Recommended Pediatric Vaccine Schedule? (October, 2013). Pediatric Allergy & Asthma Meeting: e-Poster Presentation, Athens, Greece.

37. Asians Demonstrate Optimal Compliance in CDC Recommended Pediatric Vaccine Schedule? (November, 2013). Nemours’ Poster Day: Poster Presentation, Wilmington, Del.

38. Serum Lipid as Bio-indicator of Racial/Ethnic Variance in Higher BMI. (November, 2013). Nemours’ Poster Day: Poster Presentation, Wilmington, Del.

The Human Rights Campaign — Healthcare Equality Index

The Healthcare Equality Index (HEI) is the national benchmarking tool that evaluates health care facilities' policies and practices related to the equity and inclusion of their LGBTQ patients, visitors and employees. The HEI evaluates more than 1,700 health care facilities nationwide.

Every year, they recognize the health care organizations that participate in the HEI for their dedication and commitment to LGBTQ inclusion.

Learn More

Female surgeon in a lab coat is assisted by a male health worker in scrubs to help a young male patient in a hospital bed, gown and surgical cap get ready for surgery.

Becker’s Hospital Review — Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officers to Know

Becker’s Healthcare is the go-to source for health care decision makers and one of the fastest growing media platforms in the industry. 

DEI leaders are directing efforts to create inclusive health care environments where everyone feels welcomed, valued and safe. The DEI officers included on this list are instituting training sessions, establishing business resource groups, creating scholarship programs and improving hiring practices in an effort to uplift diverse populations and enhance health equity at their organizations and within their communities. 

In 2023, Rachel J. Thornton, MD was recognized for creating Nemours' first equity roadmap, focusing on the cultural transformation of health care, and creating a demographics dashboard for the organization that offers data on broader diversity goals.

Learn More

Delaware Healthy Mother & Infant Consortium — Health Equity

This award recognizes the individuals and organizations that work hard for the well-being of mothers and children in Delaware, for the health of community and for health equity.

Mother in hospital gown smiles at her newborn who is swaddled in a hospital blanket.
Smiling Indian child learning online.

Workforce equity is foundational to all efforts focused on advancing and achieving health equity. This requires a multi-faceted approach, with our greatest chance for success coming through the engagement of our current and future associates. We must go beyond providing high-quality care to cultivating and expanding local and regional partnerships to help build our talent and leadership pipeline programs. Sharing our expertise with the next generation of associates, from those on the front lines caring for children and families to those converting innovative ideas into real-world action and policy, this is essential to creating the healthiest generations of children and a better future for our country.

IDEA Scholars Program

The IDEA Scholars Program began in 2012 and has evolved over time to align with our Culture and Talent foundational imperative as a part of our organizational strategic plan. This program is critical to building diverse talent and leadership pipelines that will give us an advantage in identifying future associates early in their careers and power our growing talent needs well into the future. IDEA Scholars work directly with associates on a project for 10 weeks or 6 months to effect change and positively reduce health care disparities. They engage in weekly seminars where we encourage discussion on emerging topics within the field and expose scholars to the nuances of a future career in health care. Applications for this program open in the fall with selections occurring in the spring. 

For more information or to express interest please contact us at IDEA@nemours.org

Ginsburg Institute for Health Equity Scholars Program

Thanks to Orlando philanthropist Alan H. Ginsburg and the Ginsburg Family Foundation's generous gift of $25 million, vital work will begin to create the Ginsburg Institute for Health Equity at Nemours Children's Health. This first-of-its-kind initiative will advance health equity for children in medically underserved communities in Florida and across the United States by building a world-class interdisciplinary program that goes well beyond medicine.

The new Ginsburg Institute will also bring together a team of world-renowned pediatric specialists, behavioral economists, health services researchers, environmental health experts, data informaticists and other professionals. Research and policy findings will be shared through local, national and international publications and forums to address the underlying social determinants of health and ultimately change how children's health is defined. 

Ginsburg Scholars will be critical to advancing this important work by supporting the incubation of new and innovative programs, engaging in national policy discussions and providing intellectual and practical assistance in clinical care, research, education and quality improvement initiatives. Applications for this program open in the fall with selections occurring in the spring. Applicants who reside in Central Florida will be prioritized for selection due to the community focus of the Ginsburg Institute in this area. For more information or to express interest please contact us at IDEA@nemours.org.

Ginsburg Announcement