Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) not only are moral imperatives, but business imperatives for our organization, and are values embraced by our people, whether they are entering the workplace or accessing our health system.
Annual Report
At the University of Tennessee Medical Center, we celebrate our similarities and differences. Read the 2021 Annual Report to learn how we’re putting our DEI program into action.
Our Commitment
At The University of Tennessee Medical Center, we are committed to the view that diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) not only are moral imperatives, but business imperatives for our organization, and are values embraced by our people, whether they are entering the workplace or accessing our health system.
Access, representation and culture are our DEI pillars, and they are essential in fulfilling in our mission – to serve through healing, education and discovery.
Defining Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
- Diversity – We celebrate and revere the similarities and differences of our identities, backgrounds and experiences that shape our unique perspectives and preferences. Diversity includes but is not limited to categories such as race, ethnicity, national origin, color, cultural heritage, religion, age, sex, gender identity and expression, abilities/disabilities, sexual orientation; as well as family, military veteran, education and/or socioeconomic statuses; and personality, language and communication styles. It extends beyond our team members, as we acknowledge and respect the broad diversity of our patients and visitors. We strive to have a workforce that is representative and understanding of our patients, their families and the communities in which they live.
- Inclusion – We foster an environment that sees, values and respects individuals so that we may consciously construct a “together culture”that involves authentic and empowered participation, and a palpable feeling of belonging that extends to team members, patients, visitors, vendors and the community. Inclusion is at the heart of our Always Behaviors and ensures that we can truly be “Together safe. Together effective. Always for our patients.
- Equity – We endeavor to create and practice fair policies, procedures, practices, pathways, and processes so that we may live our medical center vision and values to ensure inclusive, equitable and accessible care.
Health Equity
These are internal and external-facing initiatives to address community factors that exacerbate health disparities at the community level. Some of these initiatives will address health factors such as the physical environment and unhealthy behaviors, while others will focus on social and economic factors. Education around health equity, health disparities and social determinants of health (SDoH), and data informed prioritization, will be central to this approach, as well as the participation in community collaborative efforts and community engagement pertaining health equity.
Community Outreach and Education Request
Awards & Recognition
Learn more about the medical center’s commitment to excellence and its achievements.
