Leading with Cultural Sensitivity

Nicole Dhanraj, Systems Director, Northern Arizona Healthcare

Within our health care industry, there is an emphasis on increasing workplace diversity. As a result of the changes in the workplace demographics, radiology leaders have to be able to lead and influence persons with varying values and beliefs. An individual’s culture has a powerful influence on how they form relationships, perceive and process information, their work ethic, learning styles and their willingness to speak up. In this session, we will explore diversity in health care and discuss the challenges associated with leading a diverse workforce. In addition, there will be a discussion on the impact of being ethnocentric, especially as it relates to hiring practices and fostering an inclusive environment. Finally, the session will conclude with strategies on leading with cultural sensitivity with the intent of increasing awareness of bias and other pitfalls radiology leaders often unconsciously fall victim to.