Carle Health, a prominent healthcare provider, has launched a comprehensive initiative to combat weight bias and foster a more inclusive care environment for patients of all body sizes. This effort comes as part of the organization's ongoing commitment to improving patient experiences and outcomes across its network of facilities.
At the heart of this initiative is a recognition that weight bias is pervasive in society and can significantly impact healthcare delivery. Michelle Dellorso, an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse at Carle Urology, has experienced weight bias both personally and professionally, underscoring the importance of addressing this issue. Weight bias is a big issue, Dellorso states, emphasizing the need for healthcare providers to be aware of their own biases to overcome them.
To tackle this challenge, Carle Health has developed a multi-faceted approach that includes educational resources for team members and clinicians. The organization offers an Overcoming Weight Bias program, which provides materials and training to help healthcare providers reduce assumptions and deliver more compassionate care. Brenna Kelley, MPH, CPH, a Carle Experience consultant, explains that these resources cover topics such as identifying weight bias, understanding its effects, and implementing communication best practices.
The impact of weight bias on patient care can be significant. When patients delay seeking healthcare due to fear of body-shaming or inadequate accommodations, their conditions may worsen, leading to more complex treatments and higher healthcare costs. Dellorso shares a personal experience where weight bias led to a dismissive approach to her back pain, highlighting how such attitudes can result in missed diagnoses and inappropriate treatment recommendations.
Carle Health's initiative goes beyond education to create a culture of inclusivity. The organization is updating processes, policies, and physical infrastructure to ensure patients of all sizes feel welcomed and accommodated. This includes having appropriate equipment, such as larger operating tables and inpatient beds, to comfortably treat patients of various body sizes. Dellorso recounts a recent success story where a patient who was initially anxious about a procedure due to her size had a positive experience thanks to these inclusive measures.
The benefits of addressing weight bias extend to all stakeholders in the healthcare system. Patients who feel included and respected are more likely to engage in their treatment plans, leading to better health outcomes. For healthcare providers, overcoming weight bias can lead to more accurate diagnoses and more effective treatment strategies. The healthcare organization itself benefits from increased patient trust and satisfaction, potentially reducing the likelihood of patients seeking care elsewhere.
Carle Health's focus on overcoming weight bias is part of a broader commitment to creating an inclusive care environment for all patients. By addressing this issue, the organization aims to enhance its reputation not only for world-class medicine but also for compassionate, patient-centered care. As Dellorso puts it, Carle Health is known for world-class medicine. Now, we also will be known for having a world-class heart.
