Advancing Equity: Understanding, Addressing, and Mitigating Bias in Assessment in Medical Education

Clin Obstet Gynecol. 2024 Sep 1;67(3):512-523. doi: 10.1097/GRF.0000000000000870. Epub 2024 May 9.

Abstract

Despite the growing presence of women and historically underrepresented groups in academic medicine, significant disparities remain. This article examines a key aspect of these disparities: biases in assessment and learning environments. Reviewing current literature, including in OBGYN, reveals persistent gender and racial biases in subjective clinical narrative assessments. The paper then outlines a 2-pronged approach for change: first, enhancing the learning environment, and subsequently, providing targeted recommendations for individuals, academic leaders, and healthcare institutions to effectively address these biases.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Education, Medical* / methods
  • Educational Measurement / methods
  • Female
  • Gynecology / education
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Obstetrics / education
  • Racism / prevention & control
  • Sexism