Journal CME, June 2022: Equity: Critical Conversations - Closing-Equity: Critical Conversations

Equity: Critical Conversations - Closing article.pdf

Pdf Summary

The article discusses the importance of diversity not only within the workforce of physical medicine and rehabilitation but also in the methodologies and research approaches used in the field. Highlighting two significant research approaches: Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) and Community-Engaged Research (CEnR), the authors argue that traditional positivist paradigms, which seek objective truth, fail to recognize the subjective nature of human experience, making CBPR and CEnR more relevant in addressing health equity.<br /><br />CBPR, as defined by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), is a collaborative research approach involving community members, representatives of organizations, and researchers in all aspects of the research to improve health and well-being. Key principles of CBPR include recognizing the community as a unit of identity, fostering equitable partnerships, promoting co-learning, balancing research and action, and requiring long-term commitment.<br /><br />Despite their benefits in bridging gaps between medical institutions and marginalized communities, CBPR and CEnR face significant barriers. They often receive less funding compared to traditional clinical research, and their contributions are undervalued in academic contexts, affecting promotion and tenure processes. This is especially problematic for faculty from marginalized backgrounds, further impacting the retention of underrepresented groups in academia.<br /><br />The article also emphasizes the necessity for researchers and clinicians to adopt self-reflective practices and acknowledge their own identities' impact on their research. It advocates for an inclusive approach that values the lived experiences and expertise of marginalized communities.<br /><br />To foster equity in research and clinical practice, the authors suggest incorporating specific dialogue and self-reflection questions into journal clubs and critique processes. The aim is to ensure that research approaches consider diverse perspectives, ultimately driving physical medicine and rehabilitation towards greater equity.<br /><br />In conclusion, CBPR and CEnR are essential for integrating community voices into health research and education, embodying the principles of the disability rights movement’s motto, “Nothing About Us Without Us.”

Keywords

diversity

physical medicine

rehabilitation

Community-Based Participatory Research

Community-Engaged Research

health equity

marginalized communities

self-reflective practices

inclusive approach

disability rights movement