EDII (Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Indigenization) in Health Professions Education

Dr. Marghalara Rashid, who is not only an experienced qualitative researcher but can also speak five languages, conducts research with a focus on enhancing equity, diversity, inclusion, and indigeneity (EDII) in health professions education. Her academic journey, supported by influential mentors like Dr Sarah Forgie, has spanned undergraduate studies to a Ph.D. in Medical Science and postdoctoral fellowships in Rehabilitation Medicine and Health Professions Education.

Dr. Rashid's research dives into the biases, barriers, and obstacles that impede equity in health professions education, particularly for marginalized groups and Indigenous communities. Dr. Rashid recently conducted a scoping review on this topic in postgraduate medical education, and it indicated that residents reported biases and misconceptions toward Indigenous patients and their cultures, which can impede culturally competent care.

In her current multisite qualitative study, Dr. Rashid is focusing on gaining insight into resident perspectives and their understanding of the microaggressions their Indigenous patients face with a focus on the following question: What are the perspectives, attitudes, and beliefs of residents on microaggressions experienced by Indigenous patients and families in the clinical setting?

This study will generate new perspectives and knowledge to understand better how unintentional but implicit microaggressions can affect Indigenous groups disproportionately. The spotlight on microaggression will increase the awareness and sensitivity of postgraduate learners, administrators, and those involved in policy. Under the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's Calls to Action to improve Indigenous peoples' healing process, this study acknowledges the Indigenous peoples' history and can act as the first step towards building systems to prevent these abuses from occurring again.