Whitmer Directs Medical Licensees, Institutions to Incorporate Implicit Bias Training

The Coronavirus pandemic has put a spotlight on racial inequity within the health care system. 

Despite having just 14% of the population, Black people make up 40% of the total Coronavirus infections in Michigan. While focus has been on metro Detroit, the New York Times found that Black and Hispanic people are disproportionately contracting the novel coronavirus even in less dense areas like Grand Rapids. 

“If we let our guard down we could see a rapid increase cases and deaths here in Michigan.” — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer

Some of that imbalance comes from the medical workers treating the disease.

Speaking at a news conference this morning, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced changes in training for medical professionals to combat some of these inequities.

“I’ve asked  our medical partners and universities to incorporate implicit bias training into their curriculum,” Whitmer said. “So that as people of color seek health care they’ll be treated with equal dignity and respect – which will equal better outcomes.” 

Whitmer’s executive order also directs a state regulatory agency to develop rules requiring doctors and nurses receive implicit bias training when renewing their license. Medical colleges and universities are also asked to include implicit bias training as a part of the curriculum.  

Over the past two weeks, Michigan has again seen a rise in the number of Coronavirus infections, though they remain below the levels remain below where they were in April and May.

“If we let our guard down we could see a rapid increase cases and deaths here in Michigan,” Whitmer said. “That means more people getting sick and that means more people dying from this disease. For the sake of your loved ones, for the sake of the economy, please, mask up.” 

The governor did not announce any new restrictions on gatherings or rollbacks to the MI Safe Start plan.