The Power of People Resource Groups

In an effort to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion at HonorHealth, the organization is fostering trust among its employees and across the community it serves through People Resource Groups, an innovative approach championed by Dr. Priya Radhakrishnan, who serves as the Chief Academic Officer and VP of Health Equity at HonorHealth as well as the Vice Dean of Clinical Affairs and GME at Arizona State University School of Medicine and Advanced Medical Engineering. Created to address the unique needs and perspectives of HonorHealth employees, the project has been supported by the Building Trust Through Diversity, Health Care Equity, Inclusion and Diagnostic Excellence in Internal Medicine Training grant program.

Open to all team members, People Resource Groups promote inclusion and belonging by offering a safe and supportive environment for team members with shared interests and identities. Every People Resource Group is supported by an executive sponsor, who act as a mentor and advocates for the group’s initiatives and activities.

In addition to providing an outlet for employees, HonorHealth’s People Resource Groups support the organization’s mission in key areas by:

• strengthening team members’ sense of belonging;
• expanding HonorHealth’s engagement in diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging initiatives;
• facilitating discussions around diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging related topics;
• providing community service and volunteer opportunities;
• serving as champions for organizational change;
• providing developmental opportunities for People Resource Group members;
• supporting the recruitment of diverse talent;
• and working with faculty to develop curricula and simulation experiences to improve residents’ knowledge and understanding about the importance of inclusion and fostering trust.

One of these groups, Fostering Indigenous Representation through Service and Tradition (FIRST Peoples), is comprised of HonorHealth team members from various Indigenous backgrounds, including Pacific Islanders and Native Hawaiians. This group honors the rich traditions and wisdom passed down through generations, emphasizing the role of cultural competence in delivering quality health care.

FIRST Peoples was formed in recognition of HonorHealth’s six locations on or near many American Indian reservations in Phoenix and Scottsdale, Arizona. As some locations were built on the ancestral territories of Indigenous peoples, including the Akimel O’odham (Pima) and Pee Posh (Maricopa) communities, HonorHealth is committed to addressing the unique health needs of its Indigenous team members and patients, as internal data has highlighted significant disparities in health outcomes within these communities.

Photo taken during Book Club – The Seven Circles Indigenous Teachings for Living Well

By participating in activities like HonorHealth’s Academic Affairs Grand Rounds and The Seven Circles Indigenous Teachings for Living Well Book Club, and by co-producing curriculum to prepare internal medicine residents to care for Indigenous people, FIRST Peoples members have shared their personal experiences and insights to educate clinicians and other team members about various Indigenous health issues. Feedback from learners has highlighted these initiatives’ positive impact, such as increased awareness, empathy, and cultural sensitivity across the organization.

HonorHealth’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is more than just a statement; it’s a driving force that shapes the future of health care. By empowering People Resource Groups and fostering a culture of cultural competence, the hospital system is creating a more equitable and compassionate environment for all.

About the Author

Amberlyn Hopper