Implicit Bias Training

Course Description:

This Michigan-specific course examines implicit bias and its potential effects on perception, communication, clinical decision-making, and access to dental care. Participants will review oral health disparities, current research on implicit bias, cultural sensitivity, and practical strategies to reduce bias and promote equitable patient care.

Course Objectives:

Upon completion of this course, the participant should be able to:

1. Define implicit bias according to Michigan's Public Health Code General Rules.
2. Differentiate implicit bias from explicit bias.
3. Identify how implicit bias may affect perception, judgment, communication, and clinical decision-making.
4. Recognize factors that contribute to disparities in access to oral healthcare.
5. Discuss current research concerning implicit bias in dentistry and healthcare.
6. Identify ways historical and social factors may contribute to present healthcare disparities.
7. Recognize situations in which assumptions about patients may influence dental treatment.
8. Apply patient-centered communication techniques when serving diverse populations.
9. Identify practical strategies for reducing the influence of implicit bias.
10. Apply bias-reduction strategies to common situations encountered in dental practice.
    
    Required for Michigan, Illinois, Washington and Maryland.